I usually like sitting a little further back, but I've sat in the front row for Drowsy, Company (2006 revival) and twice for Gypsy. Drowsy was awesome, especially since I got hit on by Danny Burstein as Aldolpho. Company was a little...awkward. I was there by myself (the first time I ever went to a show alone) and I was almost dead center. I felt very exposed the entire time. Gypsy was amazing; I actually sat in BB 105 both times, so I was the "conductor" for a few songs. I do feel a little odd that you're rightthere, and get a little weirded out when I'm making eye contact with the actors but...like everyone else has said: having Patti LuPone sing "Everything's Coming Up Roses" and "Rose's Turn" that close to you is insane.
My problem with the front row, even when the stage isn't that high, is how you can't view the totality of the stage. I just think you miss too much having to look back and forth. I do think it's good if you've already seen a production and/or just want to get as close as possible to the actors, but otherwise I'd prefer a few rows back.
I always try for front rows because of the rise in bad behavior in Broadway audiences. Being in the first row means you have no one in front of you who might be talking, texting, eating or filming the show.
Broadway Legend Joined: 9/25/08
I was in front row for Hairspray, I couldn't see the performers knees and down unless, I hoisted myself up a little, still a great view though.
it completely depends. Rent front row was AMAZING, In the Heights front row is pretty good, Legally Blonde front row is decent, Gypsy would have been ehhh except for the fact that you are in the action and so close to Patti so it's worth it, Jersey Boys front row was bad because I'm short and really had a lot of trouble seeing.
I think I'll def try front row - at least once anyway.
Broadway Legend Joined: 8/16/06
bump
This is probably a dumb question, but can you request a certain seat ( maybe a couple rows back from the front row) with rush tickets?
Updated On: 11/5/08 at 08:41 AM
Broadway Legend Joined: 8/16/06
From what I understand, RUSH tickets are only available within teh FRONT ROW -- That's why they're only $26.50 a pop. If you want 'further back' aim for other discounts.
At Gypsy you can probably request where'd you like to sit. You'd have a choice of either front row, further back orchestra partial view seats, box seats, or balcony.
Broadway Legend Joined: 2/27/05
For the sake of argument, not counting shows that just happen to be in theatres with rather high stages, I think several of the more spectacular shows (ie 'Wicked') need to be enjoyed a little further back. I saw the above mentioned show twice. Once in the second row and once maybe 20 rows back, and i prefered it 20 rows back mainly because I was able to absorb so much more in.
I agree with you, Urban. While I think it's really fun to sit in the front row for smaller scale shows, sitting farther back (especially in the first few rows of the mezz) for a larger scale production can be that much more special. Especially because you can take everything in very differently than if you were sitting in the front of the orchestra. I think the first few rows of the mezz at the Hirschfeld are some of the the best seats I have ever had for any Broadway performance I have experienced.
I agree, especially for shows like Wicked and ones with big dance numbers.
Ideally, I’d choose to sit center orchestra about 5-10 rows back for every show. If I could afford that, I’d love it and do it every time. But front row is an amazing experience too and if that’s what’s offered through lottery and student rush, I’m definitely gonna take advantage of it, esp. while I’m a student.
Broadway Legend Joined: 2/27/05
Yeah SillySara - totally. I saw so many things I missed in 'Wicked' when I was able to sit that little futher back (and things that had a huge OMG factor to them as well).
I'd like to mention 'Sweet Charity' as one that really shouldn't be seen up close, especially with all its dance numbers. It just lost alot of its magic being that close.
Broadway Legend Joined: 8/16/06
how are the front row views for:
All my sons
Chicago
ATOTC
Equus
I guess what I am really asking is how high are these stages?
help is appreciated, thanks!!
I am having a really tough time deciding what show i want to rush for a Saturday matinee......
Broadway Legend Joined: 12/31/69
I sat in the front row at Gypsy tonight, and it was absolutely incredible. It definitely had its downsides- the stage is very high, and I am very short, so at times all I could see were singing heads. And the small little lights on the stage that turn on during Rose's turn nearly blinded me. But having Patti sing Rose's Turn while looking right at you... amazing. Plus, you get some souvenirs- I got a piece of the letter she rips up, and I caught a stripper apple. (Which was funny, because the actress sort of nodded at me right before she threw it, I guess to warn me that an apple would come flying in my face in a moment.)
I've previously sat front row at Hairspray, which was ok. It was all the way on the left, so we did miss some action, and the dancing is so intense, at times it looked like the dancers were about to come flying off the stage at you.
I also got front row at Spelling Bee, which was unbelievably fun. It felt like being part of the show :).
Broadway Legend Joined: 8/16/06
Can someone please tell me how the front row is for:
Young Frankenstein
Chicago
All My Sons
Little Mermaid
Thanks alot!
Broadway Legend Joined: 11/8/08
The Front for Chicago is FANTASTIC
Young Frankenstein front row is great too. The stage is low and the seats are set back a bit so you don't miss anything. I've sat in the front row 2 times and loved both times.
It really depends on the theatre and the show. There are pros and cons to every show/theatre. Gypsy is kinda hard to take from the front row because the stage is so high but on the other hand, you get to see each and every facial expression. 13 is actually a great show to see from the front row because the stage is low, the set is minimal and you can get really into the acting that these fantastic kids do.
EDIT: Front row at The Little Mermaid isn't bad but you get kinda overwhelmed by all the scenery.
Updated On: 11/11/08 at 10:20 PM
I saw 13 from the front row. The opening number is a little frightening from there, but otherwise they are great seats.
dancingthrulife04 posted on 11/11/08 @ 10:23:44 PM
I saw 13 from the front row. The opening number is a little frightening from there, but otherwise they are great seats.
LOL, I agree. I was seriously scared that one of them with trip and fall on me.
Broadway Legend Joined: 8/16/06
Thanks everyone!
I think I will go with Young Frankenstein :)
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