Going to the Tonys for the First Time. Need advice!

1. Yes, you need a tux. Not sure why you'd have to rent one in NYC if you already own one? But yes, it's a black tie event. That's not optional.

2. That is patently false. During commercial breaks you are permitted to use the bathroom. I know if you are sitting in the Orchestra, they do not allow you back in until the next commercial break. Not sure if that's true for the Mezzanine. 

3. I do not recall receiving a program or playbill of any kind, although I know there are souvenir booklets/programs sold in the lobby. 

I sat in the third mezzanine last year and had no problem going to the bathroom on the commercial breaks! Just run and get back before it's over because I'm not sure if they'd let you back in or not.

Yes! Last year, they had these Tony booklet things for free. They were pretty thick and had information about all the nominees and productions. They were on a huge rack thing when entering the theater and no one was watching, so my friend and I each took a couple!

Keep your acceptance speech short and to the point.    

"The first time I went I rented a tux and it was a complete waste of money. No one sitting upstairs was wearing one.  I have worn a nice suit the two times I went since and never had a problem.  "

 I concur with this. Unless you are likely to be heading for the stage to make an acceptance speech, any reasonably nice business attire is fine. 

Last year I wore a short dress that I had previously worn to a banquet-esque event and it was fine. This year, I'll probably wear a long dress. It really doesn't matter, just dress up nicely.

What others said earlier, unless you're planning on making it on stage, don't stress too much.

I'm attending as well.  Does black tie mean I actually have to wear a black bow tie with my tuxedo?  What if I want to wear a yellow bowtie, yellow gloves or yellow tuxedo shoes; as a shout out to the Visit.  Will they just not let me in??

(I'm serious.)

Most of all, enjoy yourself!

I have gone only once but there was a very strong sense of community among the audience ( we were cheering for all the shows), something one does not fully appreciate when watching the show on TV.