Broadway lotteries offer theatergoers a chance to purchase heavily discounted tickets to popular Broadway shows in New York City and on tour across the country. The lotteries allow people to enter for the opportunity to buy front row tickets or standing room tickets for around $40 or less, instead of paying the normal price of $100-200 per ticket.Get Your Groove On.
Most Broadway shows hold lotteries in order to make some tickets available at low prices on a daily basis. People can enter by showing up in person at the box office and submitting an entry card or paper slip, or by entering online through the show’s website. Entrants don’t have to pay to enter the lottery. The winners are selected randomly by a computer about 2 hours before showtime.
If your name is drawn, you can purchase either 1 or 2 tickets at the discounted lottery price. This makes Broadway shows more accessible and affordable for fans who can’t pay full price. Entering lotteries is free and doesn’t take much time, so it’s worth trying even if the odds of winning are low. Broadway lotteries provide an exciting opportunity to see an amazing show for a fraction of the normal ticket cost.
Finding Broadway Lotteries in Ohio
Ohio is home to several vibrant theater scenes, most notably in cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati. Many of the major theaters in Ohio participate in Broadway lotteries, giving theatergoers the chance to purchase tickets at highly discounted prices. Here are some tips for finding and entering Broadway lotteries in Ohio:
Playhouse Square
Playhouse Square in downtown Cleveland hosts touring Broadway shows at venues like the KeyBank State Theatre, Connor Palace, and Allen Theatre. Most shows that come through Playhouse Square offer a lottery, usually held 2-3 hours before showtime at the box office. Some shows allow in-person lottery entries only, while others accept online submissions as well. Check the Playhouse Square website for each show’s specific lottery policy. Popular shows like Hamilton and Wicked often attract hundreds of lottery entries.
Aronoff Center
The Aronoff Center is the main Broadway touring venue in Cincinnati. Lotteries are held at the box office 2 hours prior to curtain. As in Cleveland, huge hits like The Lion King have massive lottery turnouts, while less popular shows may only attract a couple dozen entries. Check the Aronoff Center website and social media for updated lottery details.
Procter & Gamble Hall
This newer venue in downtown Cincinnati also participates in Broadway lotteries for most shows. Typically the lotteries are held at the box office 2 hours before showtime. Consult the hall’s social media and website for complete lottery rules. As the newest theater in Cincinnati, Procter & Gamble Hall offers an intimate experience for lottery winners.
Victoria Theatre
The historic Victoria Theatre in Dayton also brings in touring Broadway productions and musicals. Entry procedures vary by show, so check the theater’s website for lottery policies. Dayton doesn’t see quite as many huge blockbuster hits as Cincinnati and Cleveland, so your chances may be better at the Victoria.
Akron Civic Theatre
The Akron Civic Theatre has staged Broadway lottery drawings for smash hits like Dear Evan Hansen and The Book of Mormon. Typically the lotteries take place at the box office 1-2 hours pre-show. Check their website and social channels for updates. As one of the few Broadway touring stops in Northeast Ohio, Akron provides a great lottery opportunity outside of Cleveland.
The key is researching the exact lottery policy for each theater and show. While procedures are generally similar, entry deadlines and methods can vary. With preparation and persistence, you can successfully enter Broadway lotteries across Ohio’s vibrant theater scene.
Entering the Lottery
Entering a Broadway lottery in Ohio is relatively straightforward. Here are some tips to maximize your chances of winning:
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Lotteries are typically held in-person at the theater box office 2-3 hours before showtime. Arrive early, as long lines can form.
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You’ll need to fill out an entry form with your name and contact information. Only one entry is allowed per person.
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Not all shows offer lotteries, so check the show’s website or call the box office ahead of time. Popular shows are more likely to have lotteries.
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If a show offers a digital lottery through an app like TodayTix, you can enter those in advance from anywhere. This expands your options.
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Enter every time you’re able. Consistency is key, as your chances go up each time you enter. Frequent theatergoers have better luck.
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Matinee lotteries tend to be easier to win than evening shows, as fewer people enter them.
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Lotteries are usually for front row seats or partial view seats, so be flexible. Take what you can get!
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Bring a photo ID to claim tickets if you win. Arrive early to improve your chances of hearing your name called.
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Stay within earshot of the box office during the drawing. Don’t wander off or risk missing your name.
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Remain positive! With persistence and savvy timing, you can absolutely win a Broadway lottery in Ohio.
Winning the Lottery
When you enter the lottery, you will need to provide contact information so the box office can notify you if you win. This is usually done by phone, email, or text. Be sure to keep an eye out for any notifications on the day winners are selected.
If you receive word that you’ve won the lottery, congratulations! You’ll need to follow the instructions provided to claim and purchase your discounted lottery tickets. This usually involves showing up to the box office by a specific time with the notification and valid photo ID. Some theaters may allow you to send someone else to claim the tickets if you can’t make it.
Make sure to pay close attention to the policies around winning lottery tickets. Most theaters will only allow you to purchase 1-2 tickets per winner, and you usually can’t exchange them once purchased. You’ll need to arrive at the theater and be seated by a particular time before the show starts, or you risk forfeiting your tickets. Some theaters may have additional rules, like prohibiting repeated wins within a certain time period.
The great thing about winning the lottery is you get to see an amazing Broadway show at a fraction of the normal ticket price! Just be sure to carefully follow all instructions and policies provided by the theater, so you don’t miss out on the show. Enjoy the experience!
Attending the Show
Arriving at the theater with your lottery tickets in hand is an exciting experience! Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to give yourself time to get seated. When you arrive, head to the box office and present your lottery tickets to be exchanged for actual show tickets. You may need to show ID as well.
Once you have your show ticket, head inside to find your seat. Lottery seats are typically in the first few rows of the orchestra section, putting you right up close to the action! As you take your seat, be mindful of theater etiquette – turn off your phone, avoid talking during the performance, and refrain from singing along.
When it comes to dress code, Broadway shows do not have a formal dress code but most patrons opt for business casual or smart casual attire. Dressing up can be part of the experience! For women, a nice dress or blouse and trousers is recommended. For men, trousers and a button-down or polo shirt is suitable. Avoid shorts, ripped jeans, hats, and graphic t-shirts. The most important thing is to be neat, clean, and respectful.
Get ready to soak in the magic of Broadway from your front row lottery seats! Enjoy this special NYC theater experience.
Alternatives for Unsuccessful Lotteries
If you don’t win the lottery, don’t despair! There are still options for seeing Broadway shows on a budget in Ohio.
Last Minute Discount Tickets
Many Broadway shows offer discounted same-day tickets at the box office. These tickets are usually released as soon as the box office opens. Get there early for the best selection. Discounts can range from 20-50% off regular prices.
Rush Tickets
Some shows offer unsold tickets at deeply discounted prices leading up to showtime. These “rush tickets” allow you to get great seats at fantastic prices if you don’t mind waiting until the last minute. Rush tickets are usually cash only and available 2 hours before showtime.
Standing Room Only Tickets
For very popular shows that sell out every performance, standing room only tickets are sometimes available for patient theatergoers. SRO tickets allow you to stand at the back of the theater for the entire performance. While not as comfortable as a seat, they make Broadway accessible on any budget.
Ticket Lotteries
As we discussed earlier, entering the ticket lottery is a great way to get heavily discounted tickets. Even if you don’t win, keep entering night after night. Your odds will increase the more times you try. With some persistence, you can often score lottery tickets during a Broadway trip.
Maximizing Your Experience
When you win the lottery for a Broadway show, it can be tempting to just show up and see the musical. But with a little planning, you can make the most of the experience on a lottery budget. Here are some tips:
Enjoy the Show on a Lottery Budget
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Bring your own snacks and drinks. Food at the theater can be expensive. Bringing your own helps you save money. Granola bars, candy, sandwiches, and water bottles are easy to bring.
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Use public transportation. Avoid parking fees and traffic by taking the bus or subway to the theater area. Many theaters are right by major public transit hubs.
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Dress up a bit. You don’t need to wear formal attire, but dressing up can make the experience feel more special. For women, a nice dress or blouse with skirt or pants works well. For men, opt for dress pants and a button-down shirt or polo.
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Take advantage of free activities. Arrive early and take photos outside the theater. Explore the neighborhood and visit nearby free parks or attractions.
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Limit souvenir purchases. Broadway souvenirs and merch can get pricey. Focus your budget on the show itself.
Make the Most of It
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Arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time in case of delays. You’ll also have time to find your seats, settle in, glance at the program and take in the atmosphere.
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Chat with other lottery winners in line. Fellow audience members can share their excitement. You might make a new friend.
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Soak up the atmosphere. Pay attention as the theater fills up. Notice the architecture and intricate details of the theater itself.
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Read the program before the show. You’ll recognize key names and terms during the performance.
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Sing and clap along if you’d like. Draw out the full experience by engaging with the performance.
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Stick around after the curtains close. Watch the actors take their bows and stay for curtain call.
With a few simple tips, you can fully immerse yourself in the magic of Broadway on a lottery budget. By planning ahead, you’ll maximize this incredible opportunity.
Seeing Multiple Shows
Seeing multiple Broadway shows when you visit New York City can maximize the experience and allow you to see more productions during your trip. Here are some tips for seeing multiple shows through lotteries:
Strategies for entering lotteries for multiple shows
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Research which shows offer lotteries and their entry policies. Some allow multiple entries per person, while others limit to one.
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Prioritize your top choices and focus lottery efforts on those shows first. Have back-up options in case you don’t win.
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Stagger lottery entries throughout your trip if allowed, instead of all at once. This spreads out chances.
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Team up with travel companions and coordinate lottery entries. You can cover more shows by entering as a group.
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Occasionally, shows will allow winners to accept tickets for a later date if you already have plans. Check policies.
Scheduling considerations when seeing more than one show
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Leave enough time between shows for transportation, meals, restroom breaks, and settling in. Usually 2-3 hours minimum.
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Attend matinees and evenings to maximize number of shows per day. This works best for energetic travelers.
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Choose a mix of musicals and plays. Musicals tend to be longer, while plays have shorter run times.
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Don’t overschedule. Seeing 4-5 shows over a 5-7 day trip is reasonable. Pace yourself.
Budgeting tips
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Lottery tickets are deeply discounted, but remember to budget for additional costs like transportation, concessions, merchandise, and dining out around shows.
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Research ticket discounts for additional shows you want to see beyond the lotteries. Student/military rush tickets are an option.
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Save money by staying outside the heart of NYC and taking transit in. Avoid parking costs.
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Eat an early dinner before evening shows and you can get away with a less expensive post-show snack if needed.
By using strategies like staggering lottery entries, traveling with others, and allowing time between shows, you can successfully see multiple Broadway shows on a budget through lotteries. Just pace yourself and plan ahead. The memories will be well worth it!
Planning Your Trip
Planning your trip to Ohio around the Broadway lotteries requires some coordination to maximize your chances. Here are some tips:
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Time your trip around lottery entry dates. Most shows have in-person lotteries every day, but some may only have them on certain days. Plan your schedule so you’re in town and available on lottery days.
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Stay flexible. Have backup plans in case you don’t win the lottery. Check out other shows, attractions, restaurants or museums so you can still have a great trip.
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Book refundable hotels and transportation in case you need to shift dates around lottery outcomes. Hotels with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance can provide flexibility.
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Look for centrally located hotels that make it easy to get to multiple theaters for lotteries and shows. Midtown Manhattan has the highest density of Broadway theaters.
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Consider budget hotels like Pod Hotels or Broadway Hotel and Hostel which can cost under $150/night during slower seasons. Or explore Airbnbs outside the core of Midtown.
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For cheap eats, look into pizza by the slice, halal carts, diners, and other quick grabs for $15 or less per meal.
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Sample 3-day Ohio Broadway itinerary:
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Day 1: Arrive in the morning. Enter lotteries. See a show if you win, or visit attractions like Central Park or Top of the Rock.
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Day 2: Enter more lotteries. Catch a TKTS discounted matinee. Explore museums along Museum Mile.
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Day 3: Enter final lotteries. If no wins, do Broadway-themed activities like the Ride of Fame bus tour before departing.
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With smart planning, you can experience Broadway on a lottery budget in Ohio. Coordinate dates, flexible bookings and affordable eats and hotels to make the most of your trip!
Conclusion
Seeing a Broadway show for the price of a lottery ticket is an incredible experience that shouldn’t be missed. By entering lotteries for hot shows in Ohio cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati, you have a chance at scoring seats for a fraction of the regular cost.
The key is persistence and flexibility – enter as many lotteries as possible, especially for the most popular shows that are harder to win. Be ready to rearrange your schedule if you do win, since you often need to pick up tickets within a short window. While winning is never guaranteed, the more lotteries you enter, the better your chances.
If you don’t win, don’t be discouraged! There are alternatives like standing in rush lines, looking for discounted tickets from TKTS booths, or considering other shows that may have better ticket availability. Broadway tours visit Ohio every year, so there are always new lotteries to try.
Seeing live theater is thrilling and memorable. By strategically entering lotteries, you can experience Broadway magic without breaking the bank. Let this guide inspire you to try your luck – you never know what fantastic show you might win tickets to attend on your next Ohio theater trip!