When looking to purchase tickets for popular Broadway shows, it can be tricky to know which ticket sellers are trustworthy. Buying tickets from unauthorized resellers runs the risk of getting counterfeit or invalid tickets. To ensure you are buying legitimate Broadway tickets, it’s best to purchase directly from the show’s official website or one of the authorized sellers partnered with the show.
Buy Directly from the Show’s Website
The safest option is to purchase tickets directly from the official website for the Broadway show you want to see. This eliminates any risk of getting scammed and ensures the tickets you’re buying are valid and authentic. Most Broadway shows have their own website where you can check show schedules, seating charts, and pricing to purchase tickets online. Buying direct gives you peace of mind that you will have valid tickets for the show and performance you picked.
Use an Authorized Seller Like Telecharge or Ticketmaster
Many popular Broadway shows contract with authorized sellers like Telecharge and Ticketmaster to sell tickets on their behalf. These are safe, reliable platforms to purchase Broadway tickets from. They have partnerships directly with the shows to sell and distribute tickets. Purchasing your Broadway tickets through Telecharge, Ticketmaster, or a similar authorized seller gives the same assurances as buying direct from the theater or show’s website. Your tickets will be legitimate, guaranteed by the show and seller.
Be Wary of Unauthorized Resellers and Resale Marketplaces
You’ll want to be more cautious when purchasing Broadway tickets from online resale marketplaces like StubHub or Vivid Seats. While these platforms are generally safe, there is a higher risk of fraud and invalid tickets. Sellers on these sites are reselling tickets they already purchased, sometimes at inflated prices. There’s no guarantee the tickets are authentic. Be extra careful checking seller ratings and reviews. Legitimate resellers will typically offer a 100% refund if tickets are invalid, but it’s still best to avoid the risk altogether when possible.
Look for Signs of a Secure, Legitimate Ticket Site
When buying Broadway tickets online, make sure the website seems professional, secure, and legitimate. Warning signs of an unreliable seller include:
- Very low prices that seem too good to be true
- Stock photos instead of actual seat views
- Lack of customer service contact information
- No physical business address listed
- Typos, grammatical errors, and other signs of an amateur operation
Some signs you’re on a legitimate ticket website include:
- Secure checkout with option to pay by credit card
- Money-back guarantees if tickets are invalid
- Contact info for sales or customer support teams
- Detailed seat maps and seating chart views
- Professional website design and branding
Avoid Street and Scalper Ticket Sales
Purchasing Broadway tickets from a ticket scalper or unauthorized seller on the street is very risky and best avoided. There is a huge market for fake and stolen Broadway tickets being resold illegally near theaters. Often, patrons get burned by scalpers selling tickets that turn out to be counterfeit or for a different date. Save yourself the time and hassle by buying from an authorized source online or at the box office.
Check Reviews on Sites Like Trustpilot
One way to vet an unfamiliar online Broadway ticket seller is to check for reviews on consumer review sites like Trustpilot. Search for the website name and read through customer reviews detailing experiences purchasing tickets. This can help reveal potential problems like invalid tickets or poor customer service. Look for sites with an overall high rating and numerous positive reviews praising their service and legitimacy.
Purchase In-Person at the Theater Box Office
When available, buying tickets at the theater box office is always the most assured option. You can purchase tickets in-person for upcoming shows and performances. The box office should have the latest availability for all ticket types and seating sections. There is no risk of fraud since you get physical tickets printed on the spot. Box office purchases are restricted to regular business hours, so plan ahead when shows are known to sell out quickly.
Conclusion
To summarize, your best options for securing legitimate Broadway tickets are to purchase directly from the show’s official website, use an authorized seller like Telecharge or Ticketmaster, or buy tickets in-person at the box office. Take extra precautions when buying from resale sites or marketplaces. Avoid street scalpers or sites that seem unprofessional or scammy. Following these tips will ensure you receive valid event tickets and have an enjoyable Broadway theater experience.