The ability to cancel theatre tickets and receive a refund depends on several factors, including the show, the theatre, where you purchased the tickets, and how far in advance you are attempting to cancel. Overall, most theatres do allow ticket cancellations, but will charge a fee or provide a credit rather than a full refund. Cancellation policies also tend to become stricter closer to showtime. With some advanced planning, flexibility, and research, however, you can often cancel theatre tickets and recover at least a portion of your money.
Cancelling Directly Through the Theatre Box Office
If you purchased tickets directly through the theatre box office, either in person or through the venue’s official website, you will need to cancel the tickets through the box office as well. The specific cancellation policy will vary by theatre.
Many theatre box offices allow you to cancel tickets up to 24 or 48 hours before showtime and receive a full refund. Closer to showtime, you may only receive a partial refund or perhaps a credit to use for future shows at that theatre. Some theatres may let you exchange the tickets for a different performance of the same show if available.
It’s important to note that even if the theatre has a general refund or cancellation policy, it may be different for very popular or high demand shows. For hot shows, all ticket sales are often final or subject to a restocking fee. The policy should be clarified wherever you originally purchased the tickets.
Tips for Cancelling Through the Box Office
- Check the theatre’s website for the official policy and any show-specific restrictions.
- Call the box office during business hours – this gives you the chance to ask questions and negotiate if needed.
- Request a refund first, then discuss a credit if a refund is not possible.
- For a partial refund, calculate the percentage and ask for a higher amount.
- If offered a credit, ask about expiration date and blackout dates.
Cancelling Through a Ticket Reseller
Third-party ticket resellers like StubHub or VividSeats operate independently from theatre box offices. Each reseller will have their own refund, cancellation, and resale policies.
In most cases, you can cancel and receive a full refund if done more than 48 hours before the event. Within 48 hours, you may only get a partial refund or credit. Resale sites want to discourage last minute cancellations that make it hard for them to resell the tickets.
One advantage of using a ticket reseller is that if you need to cancel close to showtime, you can often relist and resell the tickets yourself and recover the cost. This adds an extra step, but gives you a better chance of getting your money back.
Tips for Cancelling Through a Reseller
- Understand the site’spolicies before purchasing tickets.
- Resell unwanted tickets yourself when possible.
- If reselling, price tickets below current rates to sell quickly.
- List for multiple days and lower price each day if needed.
Getting Refunds on Mobile Tickets
Many theatres now use mobile ticketing through apps like TodayTix that store tickets on your phone. Mobile ticketing provides added convenience, but does make the cancellation process a bit different.
If you purchased mobile theatre tickets directly from the venue, refunds will still go through their box office under their standard policy. You will likely need to deleted the tickets from your phone app once cancelled.
For mobile tickets bought through a third-party, you will need to cancel the tickets using their website or app. You can access your order history to manage, cancel, or resell if possible. Refunds will go back to your original payment method.
Tips for Mobile Tickets
- Save screenshots or print outs as proof of purchase.
- Double check tickets are removed from your phone after cancellation.
- Book directly through theatre for easiest cancellation terms.
- Link digital wallet to ticket app as backup payment source.
Getting Refunds on Group Tickets
When you purchase theatre tickets as part of a group order, there is usually a group leader or point person who handles the transaction. In most cases, individual tickets cannot be cancelled or refunded without going through the group organizer.
The group leader can request refunds by contacting the box office or ticket provider. However, the box office may require the entire group’s tickets to be returned rather than just a single seat. For large group orders, the organizer likely signed a contract solidifying the sale.
If you need to back out of a group theatre outing, your best option is to find someone else to take your place and reimburse you the cost. Most group leaders will work with members to fill empty spots as they are able.
Tips for Group Tickets
- Contact group leader as soon as possible if you cannot attend.
- Ask friends or family if they can take your place before forfeiting tickets.
- Review group contract before purchase so you understand requirements.
- Consider trip or event cancellation insurance when booking large group events.
Cancellation Method | Refund Policy | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Box Office Direct | Set by theatre. Full refund if cancelled 24-48 hrs in advance. Partial or no refund closer to show. | Simple, deals directly with venue. | Policies can be strict. |
Ticket Reseller | Varies by site. Full refund often if cancelled 48+ hrs before. Partial refund or credit after. | Can relist and resell tickets yourself. | Middleman fees involved. |
Mobile Tickets | Refunds based on site purchased. Must be cancelled in app used. | Convenient digital tickets. | Can be trickier to refund. |
Group Tickets | Refunds typically require entire group cancellation. Work with group leader. | Fun experience with friends. | Complicated to get individual refunds. |
When Refunds May Not be Possible
In some cases, you may lose the entire cost of theatre tickets if a cancellation or refund is no longer possible:
- The show is sold out and tickets are in high demand.
- You purchased discounted tickets that were non-refundable.
- The theatre has a firm no refund policy.
- You attempt to cancel day of or after showtime.
- The tickets were purchased through an unofficial third-party.
Your options for recouping any money back are also very limited for free tickets won through contests, promotions, lotteries, or rush programs. These typically cannot be returned or exchanged once claimed.
Avoiding Non-Refundable Theatre Tickets
- Thoroughly read policies before every ticket purchase.
- Avoid discount sites advertising cheap, no refund tickets.
- Only buy from authorized, reputable sellers.
- Double check show dates, times, and location before completing order.
Recourse for Non-Refunded Tickets
When a theatre refuses to provide a refund, even for a cancelled or rescheduled performance, you may still have options to recover some of the cost:
- Dispute the charges – File a chargeback with your credit card company explaining the situation.
- Resell at a discount – List the tickets on a resale site yourself at a lower price.
- Donate the tickets – You can donate unwanted tickets to charity for a tax deduction.
- Negotiate a partial refund – Try to compromise on a credit for concession or merchandise.
You can also escalate the issue by complaining on social media or contacting a consumer advocacy service for assistance.
Factors That Impact Theatre Ticket Refunds
Several key factors will determine if and how you can cancel theatre tickets and obtain a refund:
Where You Purchased the Tickets
Tickets bought directly through the theatre box office typically have the most flexible cancellation terms. Third-party sellers or resellers each set their own policies. Unauthorized sellers should always be avoided.
Time Before the Performance
Most theatres will only allow full refunds on tickets cancelled more than 24-48 hours before showtime. The closer to curtain time, the less likely a refund will be provided.
Popularity of the Show
Hits shows that are likely to sell out will have the strictest no refund policies. Unpaid seats are harder to fill at the last minute for hot shows.
Reason for Cancellation
Personal reasons for cancelling typically don’t impact refund eligibility, but if the show is cancelled or postponed altogether refunds are much more likely to be offered.
Best Practices for Cancelling Theatre Tickets
Follow these tips to have the best chance of successfully cancelling theatre tickets for a full or partial refund:
- Check policies before buying – Understand all cancellation and exchange rules up front.
- Buy early – Purchase tickets as far in advance as possible for most flexibility.
- Avoid resale sites – Stick to primary or official ticket sellers when possible.
- Act quickly – Request to cancel tickets right away if plans change.
- Sell unwanted tickets – Recoup costs by reselling tickets yourself if needed.
- Be polite but persistent – Negotiate respectfully with box office staff if initial refund is denied.
Common Theatre Ticket Refund Questions
Can you return theatre tickets?
Most theatres do allow tickets to be returned, often for a full refund if cancelled 24 or more hours before showtime. Return policies vary by venue and show. Tickets bought through third-parties must usually be returned to the seller.
Do theatres refund tickets if a show is cancelled?
Yes, if a theatre cancels a scheduled performance altogether, they will typically offer refunds for ticket holders. You may also have the option to exchange into a different performance.
Can you resell theatre tickets?
Unused theatre tickets can be resold through ticket resale marketplaces. Selling tickets yourself allows you to recoup some costs on unwanted tickets instead of outright cancelling.
What happens if you lose theatre tickets?
Lost, misplaced, or forgotten theatre tickets can usually be reissued by the original point of purchase, often for a small fee. Bring whatever proof of purchase you have and be prepared to show ID.
How far in advance should you buy theatre tickets?
It’s generally best to buy theatre tickets 1-3 months in advance when prices may be lower and cancellation policies more flexible. Last minute tickets can be expensive or impossible to get.
The Bottom Line
With some planning and research, you can often cancel or return unwanted theatre tickets. Each theatre, show, and point of purchase will have specific policies regarding refunds, credits, or exchanges. While you may forfeit some money and fees, there are usually options to recover at least a portion of your costs. Pay close attention to all ticket terms before completing a theatre ticket purchase.