Rush tickets are deeply discounted Broadway and Off-Broadway theater tickets that go on sale on the day of the performance. They provide an opportunity for people to see shows at a fraction of the regular price. But how many rush tickets can you actually get? The number varies based on the particular show and policies in place. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when it comes to the number of rush tickets available.
What are rush tickets?
Rush tickets, also sometimes called student rush tickets, are unsold tickets for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows that go on sale on the day of the performance. They are usually sold for $20-40, significantly cheaper than the regular ticket price. To get rush tickets, you line up at the box office when it opens. There is no guarantee you will get a ticket since it is based on availability. Rush ticket policies vary by show. Some shows offer rush tickets every day, while others only on certain days of the week. They are generally cash only purchases. Rush tickets provide access to sought after shows for budget-conscious theater fans willing to take a chance.
How many rush tickets are available?
The number of rush tickets available for any given performance depends on the specific show and how many seats are left unsold. This can vary greatly. Some shows may release just a handful of tickets per performance, while others may have 50 or more rush tickets. Availability depends on factors like popularity, theater size, day of the week, and time during the run. Typically more rush tickets are available early in a show’s run before word of mouth spreads. For extremely popular shows, there may only be a very limited number of rush tickets, or sometimes none at all. Less popular shows tend to have more availability. Most theaters hold back some seats for late release as rush tickets rather than selling them at full price.
Rush ticket limits
To keep the process fair, most shows that offer rush tickets impose limits on how many tickets you can purchase. Common limits are 1 or 2 tickets per person. This prevents resellers or brokers from buying up all the rush tickets and then turning around and selling them for a profit. So if you need 3 or 4 tickets, you may need a few people in your group to line up. Some theaters require you to be physically present to buy rush tickets, while others allow a proxy. Limits allow more individual theater fans to take advantage of rush ticket offers.
Broadway Rush Tickets
Rush tickets are available for most Broadway shows. Here are some details on popular shows and how many rush tickets you may be able to get:
The Lion King
The long-running musical usually offers 20-25 rush tickets per performance. Tickets can be purchased in person at the box office 2 hours before show time. The limit is 2 tickets per person. Due to high demand, rush tickets may sell out very quickly.
Wicked
Wicked generally offers around 20 rush tickets per performance. A limited number may also be available through online lotteries. Tickets can be bought at the box office starting at 10 am. There is a limit of 2 tickets per person. Lines tend to be very long, so arrive early for the best chance.
The Book of Mormon
The Tony award winning satirical musical typically releases 20 rush tickets per show. Tickets go on sale 2 hours before curtain at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre box office. 2 tickets maximum per purchaser. This popular show often has long lines.
Moulin Rouge!
This recent Broadway hit has a rush ticket policy of making at least 26 tickets available per performance. The exact number varies. Tickets go on sale at the box office 2.5 hours prior to each show. 2 ticket limit per person. Demand is high so early arrival advised.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
The Harry Potter play offers around 30 rush tickets per part for every performance. Tickets go on sale at 10 am either online or in person at the box office. Limit of 2 tickets per person applies. Expect long lines and sell outs.
Hamilton
The hugely popular Hamilton makes 21-40 rush tickets available per performance via online lottery. There is also an in-person lottery 2.5 hours before the show for $10 front row tickets. Odds of winning the lotteries are very low due to intense demand.
Chicago
The classic musical comedy has one of Broadway’s more generous rush policies. They make up to 60 rush tickets available per show. Tickets go on sale at the Ambassador Theatre box office at 10 am. 2 ticket limit per person.
Off-Broadway Rush Tickets
Off-Broadway shows also offer rush tickets, usually in slightly higher numbers than Broadway due to the smaller theaters. Here are some popular Off-Broadway musicals and plays with rush ticket policies:
Little Shop of Horrors
This revival of the classic musical comedy offers 20 rush tickets per performance. Tickets go on sale 2.5 hours before the show at the box office. 2 ticket limit per person.
Sweeney Todd
Up to 38 rush tickets are available for this revival of the Sondheim musical. Rush tickets go on sale at 11am on the day of the show at the Barrow Street Theatre box office. 2 ticket limit.
Avenue Q
The hilarious adult puppet musical makes up to 32 rush tickets available per performance. Tickets go on sale at the box office 2 hours before curtain. Limit of 2 per customer.
Little Shop of Horrors
This long-running Off-Broadway improv comedy show offers around 30 rush tickets per show. Tickets go on sale at the box office 1 hour before showtime. 1 ticket limit per person.
Blue Man Group
The wild percussion show has a relatively generous rush policy, sometimes exceeding 50 tickets per performance. Rush tickets go on sale at the Astor Place Theatre box office around 2 hours prior to showtime. Limit of 2 tickets per person.
Tips for Getting Rush Tickets
Here are some handy tips to improve your chances of scoring rush tickets:
Get there early
Lines for rush tickets can form very early, especially for the most popular shows. Getting to the box office 1-2 hours prior to rush ticket availability will put you ahead of most of the crowd.
Go during off-peak times
Aim for weeknights and matinees when box offices are less likely to be sold out. Fridays and Saturdays are the hardest nights to get rush tickets.
Be flexible
If you are determined to see a particular show, take whatever seats are available rather than trying to get the best seats. You can’t be picky with rush tickets.
Check box office policies
Make sure to confirm the rush ticket procedures for the show you want since every box office is slightly different in terms of time of availability, ticket limits, payments accepted etc. Policies may also be changed or suspended at any time.
Lotteries
Consider entering digital lotteries for hit shows when available. You often find out if you won hours before the performance. This can beat waiting in long physical ticket lines.
Have backup plans
Especially for the most in-demand shows, there is always a possibility you walk away empty handed. Have a backup show or two in mind in case you don’t get rush tickets for your first choice. Flexibility helps.
Matinees
Rush tickets tend to be easier for matinees than evening performances. Families and tourists generally go for the evening shows. Try your luck at a weekend or weekday matinee.
How Many Rush Tickets Can You Get?
In summary, the number of rush tickets made available per performance varies widely based on the show, theater, and time of the run. Most theaters limit purchase to 1 or 2 tickets per person. On Broadway, you can typically expect between 20-50 rush tickets per show. For Off-Broadway shows, it’s common to see around 30-60 rush tickets released. Popular shows sell out very quickly, so get there as early as possible. With flexibility and some luck, using rush tickets allows budget-minded theater fans to access Broadway shows at affordable prices.