Student Blog: Rules For Rush

One of the best things about going to school in New York City is getting to actively rush shows. Some Broadway shows offer the wonderful opportunity to get cheaper tickets when the theaters’ box offices open at 10:00 am (Noon on Sundays). Every person can get up to two tickets. These tickets usually range between $20-$49. Imagine seeing a Broadway show for $25. $25. A great thing about rush is that the seats can be good. Last spring, I rushed two shows ($30 and $48) and got front-row seats. Until I found out about rush, I never imagined I’d be sitting front row at a Broadway show. 

Now, you must be thinking, what is the catch? There is a limited number of rush tickets per show, meaning you aren't guaranteed a ticket even if you wait in the rush line. Also, while some tickets can be absolute steals, others often have an obstructed view. 

I’m by no means an expert at rushing shows, but I do have a friend who is. So here are some tips and tricks! 

1. Do your research! 

Unfortunately, not all shows offer rush tickets but if a show does, this information can easily be found on their website or Instagram. Following that, all shows have different performing schedules so make sure you’re going on a day when the box office is actually open. Depending on a show’s popularity, the rush lines can be long. Because rush tickets are limited, it’s best to be aware of how many people regularly rush shows and what days of the week might work best (rushing on weekends in some cases might not always be ideal). Some people wait in rush lines starting at 5 in the morning to simply showing at 9:59. 

2. Prepare for the weather 

I’m a born and raised New Yorker, so when I would rush shows with my veteran rusher from California, I would be lying if I said that I’d downplay the cold when we would rush shows together. If it’s not below forty degrees, there’s no need for an actual coat, duh. WRONG. Depending on how early you get on the rush line, it’ll be early in the morning which always tends to be chillier. I learned this the hard way in front of the Longacre. It might rain or snow, which could influence whether you’ll even want to rush that day or not. New York’s weather is in no way predictable, and some days feel like four seasons all in one day. On the flip side, if it’s gonna be a hot summer day, have sunscreen if needed and lots of water! 

3. Snacks and Drinks 

I’ve waited in a rush line for three hours before, and some people wait five hours. It’s early in the morning, and you WILL get hungry or thirsty. I recommend bringing some water and something light. You don’t want anything too heavy that will require a bathroom visit considering finding a public bathroom in Times Square where you won’t have to buy something to use it is rare. But if you need coffee, have it. If you are rushing with a friend, I recommend a tag team situation. One person can save a spot on the line while someone runs into a cafe for some breakfast on the go or while someone uses the bathroom. 

4. Bring a friend!

You can have a lot of fun while rushing a show despite the long wait and questionable weather. You can bring a friend to rush with you, whether they get tickets for themselves and another or just to keep you company. I’ve made one too many inside jokes on rush lines and I fear no one understands the purple M&M quite like me and my friend do. 

5. Take advantage of being a student!

Some theaters offer student rush. If you have a valid school ID, you can get guaranteed cheaper tickets than the regular rush price if that’s the case. Be aware of the different theater companies as well, because some offer cheaper tickets based on membership programs, which might offer cheaper options than the rush option. 

My final note for rushing shows is to be considerate. Rush tickets are limited, so remember that everyone in that line wants to see the show as badly as you. If you’ve already seen or rushed a specific show, maybe try to let other people get the experience to see it. While in line, be courteous of yourself and the space of others. It’s early in the morning, some people might be open for conversation and others may not. Listening to music through headphones, reading a book, or doing any homework if possible are all great ways to pass the time as well.  

At the end of the day, we are all people who enjoy theatre, especially when it’s affordable. 

Signed, 

J.F