While the glitz and glamour of a musical are often considered the major draw for Broadway shows, there’s something to be said about the power of a good ol’ play. No frills, just a kickass plot and powerful performances. The Tony Awards, considered the highest honour in the Broadway community, also recognize how deeply ingrained plays are to Broadway’s DNA. This is why they have separate acting, production, and other technical categories for the best Broadway plays and musicals.
Some of the best plays on Broadway have grossed equal to (and in some cases more than) their musical counterpart in the last couple of years. For instance, Present Laughter, which premiered on March 12th 2017, has collected an astounding $9,863,493 within three months! In comparison, Groundhog Day, a stage adaption of the popular 90's time-loop comedy, grossed approximately $9,434,640 within pretty much the same time frame.
Clearly, enough people enjoy New York City Broadway plays to warrant this little piece spotlighting the best Broadway plays. Scroll down to see our roundup of the top Broadway plays this year!
Top 3 Reasons to Watch a Play at Broadway
There are countless reasons why one should attend a Broadway play, some of which include:
- When attending a Broadway play, one will have the opportunity to experience world-class talent in an intimate setting. Many of these shows offer an up close and personal experience rarely found elsewhere, allowing audience members to feel as if they are in the scene they are watching.
- The performers on stage are some of the most talented and experienced actors in the world, providing patrons with a show that is sure to captivate and entertain.
- The storytelling that takes place within a Broadway play is also something to behold. From classic stories of love and loss to modern tales of triumph and tragedy, there are so many stories being told on the Broadway stage. Each show offers a unique take on the tale they tell, immersing viewers in a captivating experience. Regardless of whether one is seeing a comedy or tragedy, there is sure to be something extraordinary to take away from each production.
Top 5 Plays to Catch at Broadway This Season
Broadway plays are a classic form of entertainment, providing those attending with an exhilarating night of captivating drama and awe-inspiring performances. Here are top 10 picks to watch this year while you're in New York:
How to Buy Tickets to Broadway's Plays?
With Headout, getting tickets for Plays in Broadway has become easier than ever! Broadway shows are highly sought after and hence needs to be booked early. Through Headout, you can book your Broadway Show Tickets at the comfort of your home, and make use of the many discounts and cashbacks available!
How to Dress for a Broadway Play in London?
Watching a Broadway play in New York city is an exciting and memorable experience, and one of the most important tips for attending such a show is to dress appropriately. While there is no strict dress code required to attend a Broadway play in New York, there are certain tips that will ensure that you look your best and feel comfortable as you enjoy the show.
- It is suggested that you dress smartly for a Broadway play. Not only will this show respect for the theatre and the actors performing, but it will also make you feel more confident and comfortable in your surroundings.
- Typical attire worn by guests attending a Broadway performance would include traditional evening wear such as cocktail dresses or suits, or a more casual look with slacks and a collared shirt.
- Consider adding some subtle flair to your ensemble for an extra touch of sophistication. Accessories such as statement earrings, scarves, ties, or bowties can all be used to bring together an outfit and enhance the overall appearance. Even something simple like a nice belt or pocket square can be a great addition to your look.
- Finally, remember that comfort is key when attending a Broadway play in New York. Since these performances can last several hours, it's important to choose an outfit that you feel comfortable wearing for the duration of the play. This means that anything too tight or uncomfortable should be avoided.
Insider Tips
Before you head out to watch a Broadway play, there are a few things you should consider to ensure your experience is as enjoyable as possible:
- Purchase your tickets ahead of time: Most shows will sell out quickly, so buying in advance can help ensure that you get the seats you want.
- Research the show before attending: Knowing the basic plot of the musical can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your viewing experience, so take some time to familiarize yourself with the story.
- Try and arrive early to the theater: This will give you time to explore the area, find your seat, and get comfortable before the start of the show. You can also use this extra time to purchase a drink or snack from one of the many concessions stands located in most theaters.
- Make sure you dress appropriately: While theater etiquette may vary from show to show, generally speaking it is advised to dress in casual yet respectable attire – think smart-casual for daytime shows and more formal for evening performances.
FAQs
To find the best deals, it’s best to buy tickets as early as possible. Besides, with Headout you also get additional discounts.
Most Broadway theaters have an age restriction depending on the show. Generally speaking, though, children under 4 or 5 years old are not allowed in most Broadway theaters. Some performances may even require a minimum age of 8 or 10, depending on the show.
There is an abundance of great Broadway plays to choose from. Popular options include Hamilton, The Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, and The Book of Mormon. Each play offers something unique and memorable, so be sure to do your research prior to purchasing tickets.
Ticket prices vary depending on the show, date, and seating area. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$200 for a ticket. Premium seats for popular shows may be higher in price.
Yes. Many theaters offer discounts for students, seniors and members of theater loyalty programs. You may also find discounted tickets through Headout.
To discover other shows on Broadway right now, check out our guide on the Best Broadway shows in New York.
If you are looking for musicals only, then check out our guide on the best musicals on Broadway right now. Also, here's an Off Broadway shows list as well that you can consider if you're looking to hit the Off Broadway theatre scene! You can also check out our website for some great deals and offers on Broadway play tickets. The choice is all yours!
