by B. B. James

Created on: May 20, 2007   Last Updated: May 22, 2007

Buying discounted tickets for Broadway shows is pretty simple, but it's definitely best to do some research ahead of time. The process itself requires no more than standing on a line in Times Square on the day of a performance, with cash or traveler's checks in hand (they don't take credit cards). When it's your turn at the window, make your selection among the available shows, and you will get tickets for about half price (service charges make it more than half price).

But do your homework first. My wife and I used to live in NYC, and here are our tips to make your experience most satisfying:

1. Consider off-Broadway plays. The most high-profile plays rarely have half-price tickets available, so don't get on line expecting to get them. And the major productions that do have half-price tickets are often either lousy plays, or in huge theaters where your seat is very far away. Neither is worth it. In contrast, off-Broadway plays are often more interesting and always in more intimate settings.

2. Read the reviews. Before you get on line, rank your preferences for plays (Broadway or off-Broadway), based on your interests and the reviews. Check the list of what's available as soon as you get on line. If nothing that you want to see is available, then don't just buy some random thing because it's half price. Instead, call the theaters that are showing what you want to see, and pay the full rate. Remember that an off-Broadway play at full price isn't much more than a Broadway play at half price.

3. If you are going to a specific play only to see a high-profile star in a popular play, be wary if the tickets are half price. Probably the star won't be performing that night. The half-price place should be able to tell you if one or more lead actors/actresses will not be on stage that night. The understudies are superb performers, of course, but if you have your heart set on seeing Madonna in a play on Broadway, then pay the full price to see her.

4. Get on line early in the day. You will have better selection and a shorter wait. And you will be able to enjoy your sightseeing before the show.

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