Are discount codes a thing of the past?

Are discount codes a thing of the past? I remember BroadwayBox, TheaterMania, Playbill, and others always having codes, plus getting them emailed pretty regularly.

 

I know they were usually more expensive than rush or lotto, but still way better than full price. It was such a good middle-ground option.

 

Anyone else miss the good old days, or know where the discount codes went?

 

I got mailers regularly pre-COVID. Today was the first one in ages, for Salesman (code is DOMAIL for those interested)

After the post Tony bloodbath last year, when a bunch of new musicals have all quickly closed, I've noticed I stopped receiving regular Theatermania emails with codes. Mailers seemingly have almost disappeared too, but I've received a bunch from off-Broadway houses. Given state of the economy and shifted priorities, I only now buy rush or lottery.  I accepted the fact that  I'll never see a show from a great seat that i can pick myself and thats ok. Some presales have  $49-59 cheap seats, but its very rare nowadays. Drops on TodayTix are a great bargain too, I saw Oedipus for $41 from a great rear mezzanine seat. TDF became a bit pricey a couple of years ago, so I don't think I'll be extending my membership any longer. It's becoming rough out there.

I used to use discount codes all the time! It was especially helpful to use them in person at the box office since that meant there would be additional savings without the service fees. Playbill.com still has some codes, but for a very limited number of shows.

https://playbill.com/discount
 

 

I think the traditional discount code is a thing of the past, unfortunately. It’s sad because my nascent theatregoing days were spending on BroadwayBox searching for discounts.

Most discounts have just been repackaged in different terms, like buying ahead and getting 20-30% off, or seat maps using a dynamic pricing function that raises and lowers prices based on demand. Some shows also change their prices on their own via their website.

Personally, I know CHESS drops their tickets prices for midweek shows on TC around 24-48 hours before showtime for certain sections - so that extreme side rear orchestra seat that was one $125 is now $75.

I’ve noticed some of the shows starting to sell tickets on the theatr app.  Especially Chess, $80 for rear mezz seats.  Sold by TicketAgentTheater212 lol

For people who used discount codes - we will always miss them emotionally.

Dynamic pricing has taken their place.  So people who don't have a history with discount codes don't know any better.

Interesting how the mailer for Salesman does in fact have a code - smart marketing to an older audience who responds well to mailers with codes.

 

There’s a discount code out there for Maybe Happy Ending.  Code: VERYHAPPY

I still receive emails from TheaterMania with discount ticket offers, usually once a week. Most of the offers aren't very good, or are for shows I've already seen, but the TheaterMania emails still exist.