Wicked is one of the most popular Broadway musicals, attracting visitors from all over the world to see it at the Gershwin Theatre in New York City. As a high-demand show, Wicked ticket prices can vary quite a bit depending on factors like performance date, seat location, and time of purchase. Here’s a look at what to expect when buying Wicked tickets in NYC.
What are the average ticket prices for Wicked on Broadway?
The average price for Wicked tickets on Broadway is typically between $99 – $250 per seat. However, prices can be higher or lower depending on demand. During peak seasons like summertime or the holidays, tickets tend to be at the higher end of that range. Off-peak, slower dates like January or September often have cheaper tickets in the $99 – $150 range.
Besides the date you want to see the show, the seats you select also impact pricing. Front mezzanine or orchestra seats in the middle of the theater usually command the highest prices while rear mezzanine, balcony, and partial view seats are less expensive.
Cheapest seat prices
The cheapest seats for Wicked are typically partial view balcony seats found in the rear corners of the mezzanine. These seats are labeled as having an “Obstructed View” or “Limited View” and can cost between $59 – $99 each.
Most expensive seats
The most expensive seats are located in the center orchestra section rows A-F. These prime seats closest to the stage can cost $249 – $399 each for performances during peak weeks. Front mezzanine center seats a few rows back typically sell for $150 – $250 per seat.
How far in advance should I purchase Wicked tickets?
It’s recommended to purchase Wicked tickets as far in advance as possible, ideally 2-3 months before your desired performance date. Wicked often sells out quickly, so buying ahead ensures you can get good seats at lower prices before availability declines closer to the show.
Buying at least 6-8 weeks out will provide the best choice of seat locations at moderate costs. Inside of 6 weeks, you’ll have fewer options and prices will be higher on remaining seats. Inside of 2-4 weeks, only single seats or obstructed views may remain open.
Advance purchase strategies
If planning a special trip to NYC, buying 3-6 months early can secure good orchestra, front mezzanine or center balcony seats in the $150 – $225 range before they sell out. For impromptu trips or local NYC residents, at least 2 months advance booking lands you fair pricing and decent location options.
How do Wicked ticket prices vary by section?
Wicked tickets pricing within the Gershwin Theatre varies significantly based on the seat section and location you choose. Below is an overview of the cost differences by section:
Section | Usual Price Range |
---|---|
Front Orchestra | $249 – $399 |
Mid Orchestra | $199 – $349 |
Rear Orchestra | $149 – $249 |
Front Mezzanine | $150 – $250 |
Rear Mezzanine | $99 – $199 |
Balcony | $69 – $149 |
As you can see, the best seats in the center orchestra rows and front mezzanine come at a premium cost. But sitting farther back in the rear orchestra, rear mezzanine, or balcony provides big savings.
Comparing orchestra vs. mezzanine
Front mezzanine seats are similar in price to rear orchestra due to the elevation. So you pay less but still get a direct view. Rear mezzanine seats are cheaper than equivalent rear orchestra seats. So the mezzanine offers good value options close to the stage.
Balcony seats
The balcony is the top tier and farthest from the stage, hence the lowest prices. But these seats still provide good views and the ability to see the stage well for an affordable cost. Just avoid the corners with obstructed views.
How can I find Wicked discount & lottery tickets?
Wicked sells out consistently, so discounts and deals are less common than for other Broadway shows. But here are some ways to find cheaper Wicked tickets in NYC if you’re flexible:
Broadway ticket lotteries
Wicked offers an online ticket lottery where a limited number of $25 orchestra seats are raffled off for each performance. You can enter the lottery 2.5 hours before showtime. It’s a long shot, but winners get the best seats for 95% off!
Same-day standing room
A limited number of $39 standing room tickets are sold at the box office the same day as the performance. You’ll have to stand the whole time, but it’s the cheapest way to see the show.
Student and military discounts
Some tickets are put on sale for students and military members at $59-$69 when available. Check the box office same-day for availability.
Seasonal sales
Occasionally there are specials like Cyber Week sales where extra tickets get discounted 20-30%. Check the Wicked website for any current promotions.
When are the best times to visit NYC for cheap Wicked tickets?
In general, the off-season months in NYC from January to April (excluding holidays) and September to mid-November after kids go back to school offer the most availability of discounted Wicked tickets. Peak visitor times around Christmas, New Year’s, Thanksgiving, and summers drive prices much higher.
Time of Year | Typical Ticket Price Range |
---|---|
January – mid-February | $99 – $199 |
Mid-February – April (excl. holidays) | $125 – $225 |
May – mid-June | $149 – $249 |
Mid-June – Labor Day | $175 – $325 |
September – mid-November | $125 – $225 |
Thanksgiving week | $175 – $325 |
Mid-December – New Year’s | $175 – $325 |
If you’re flexible on dates, targeting a NYC trip during the fall shoulder season after the summer rush or winter off-peak season will give you the most bang for your buck on Wicked tickets.
School holiday weeks
It’s smart to avoid visiting NYC during busy school holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, Thanksgiving week, and Easter week. Ticket prices can be up to 50% higher during these peak demand times.
What are the best days of the week to see Wicked on a budget?
In general, Tuesday through Thursday performances of Wicked have the most availability of discounted seats. Fridays through Sundays tend to sell out faster and have fewer deals.
Avoid going on a Saturday if possible, as weekend shows are in highest demand year-round. Fridays are popular with tourists and locals alike. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday often have ticket specials, rush offers, and lower prices for leaner crowds.
Day of Week | Typical Ticket Price Range |
---|---|
Tuesday | $99 – $199 |
Wednesday | $109 – $209 |
Thursday | $125 – $225 |
Friday | $149 – $249 |
Saturday | $175 – $325 |
Sunday | $149 – $249 |
Matinee vs. evening performances
Matinees on weekdays (usually Wednesday and Saturday) provide another opportunity for savings. Afternoon shows are popular with tourist groups, but draw less of the regular business and date night crowds. Tickets typically run $25-$50 cheaper for matinees.
Should I buy Wicked tickets directly from the box office?
Buying Wicked tickets directly through the show’s box office is highly recommended if possible. This ensures you’re getting valid tickets sold at face value price. Here are some benefits of buying at the box office vs. a reseller:
- Cheaper prices – no third-party fees
- Access to promotional deals and rush tickets
- Pick your own exact seats off the seating chart
- Avoid scams from disreputable ticket brokers
The main downside is you’ll need to visit the box office at the Gershwin Theatre in person to purchase tickets. However, it’s worthwhile to get peace of mind and the lowest prices.
Getting tickets online
If you can’t make it to the physical box office, the official Wicked website also sells the same tickets online. This is a trusted way to buy them from afar without extra fees. There’s also a very low-cost print-at-home ticketing option.
Avoiding reseller markups
Ticket resale sites like StubHub can charge 15-25% in extra booking fees that drive up costs. Scam sites may sell fake or duplicated tickets too. Whenever possible, go straight to the Wicked box office site for tickets at their true price.
Conclusion
Wicked consistently commands premium ticket prices, but deals can be found by strategically timing your visit. Aim for slower weeks in January-April or September-November. See the show midweek on Tuesday-Thursday evenings or matinees. Check the box office site directly for ticket deals and rush seats. Following these tips will help you secure the best prices on Wicked tickets in NYC!