I’ve always enjoyed the intrinsic pleasure that comes from a good bargain. Some people call me cheap, I call myself committed to a good sale. It really has less to do with the money, than it does with knowing that you got it for less than what your friend paid. I know there are others out there that feel the same. Right?

Your Friend: I saw Wicked last night. Third row.

You: Me too. First row.

Your Friend: Cool. Pretty expensive tickets, huh?

You: Not really. I paid $25.

Your Friend: What?? I paid $120!

Well, I’m sure it would go something like that. I know. I’ve done it. Yes, each and every time a big Broadway show comes to L.A. I’m right there looking for the cheapest way to see it. Sometimes it’s worth the cheap price (Rent, Doubt) other times it’s not (Mamma Mia!, A Light in the Piazza.) I’m offering some tips on seeing these shows for cheap. If you know any more, be sure to let me know. I’m always looking for bargains.

One of the best, but not necessarily the most frequent, is to hit up your friends and colleagues. Let them know how much you enjoy the theatre. Mention it often. There may be a time when the have tickets and they can’t use them. Mention you are broke. Mention it often. You might get those tickets for free.

Student discounts. Most theatres offer reduced rates if you’re an active student at any local college or university. The same applies for subscriptions. You can get a pretty substantial discount on all shows for a season if you’re so inclined.

Go to a Preview. Usually the first few weeks of a show are designated previews. These are generally performances where the company is still tweaking the show, making changes, getting used to audience reactions, etc.

Partial view seats. Many theatres will not advertise this one. Seats are usually reserved at the extreme ends of the theatre where—you guessed it—the sets will get in the way, but only partially. You still get to see the show, but only maybe 95% of it. In any case, the seats are usually in the orchestra.

Goldstar. The best online box office for discounted tickets to, not just theatre, but to all events. It’s a must go-to for a good bargain. You do have to register, but it is quick and it is free. www.goldstar.com

Pay what you can nights. You’ll have to call the theatre company and ask what, if any, are the dates for their pay-what-you-can nights. I know that the Actor’s Gang designated Thursdays for this.

Group discounts. This one might be a little tough to coordinate, but usually 15 or more will get you a good discount on a show. I’ve never tried it; no one ever wants to go on the same night.

Join their mailing list. Most theatre companies have a mailing list that you can join and they’ll send special coupons or discount nights for their fans.

The Lottery. As far as I know, the only event holding lottery tickets for a show here in L.A. is Wicked at the Pantages theatre. Basically, you show up two hours before curtain, put your name on a card and wait for your name to be called. It’s called a lottery because there are only a very limited amount of seats (usually the first two rows of the orchestra) and sometimes there can be a hundred people waiting for their name to be called. If yours doesn’t, try again tomorrow. Tickets are usually $20-$25 and you can only get 2 tickets-cash only.

Hot tix. The Centre Theatre Group in downtown Los Angeles offers a great program to see their shows for only $20. You can call (213) 628-2772 for information or visit CTG’s website for details.

Photo courtesy of Flickr.com

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