There are many ways to get discounted tickets to Broadway shows, and often one of the ways to get the cheapest tickets possible to a Broadway show is to get a ticket in standing room. This is not something that every show offers, not ever Broadway theatre is even capable of handling standing room, but at some shows, you can get the opportunity to see the show from an amazing view, for an incredibly cheap price.
Standing room is typically located in back of the orchestra behind the final row of seats. There is usually a railing along the back of the orchestra, and each person is given a numbered spot to stand in through the show.
But how are you expected to act in a Broadway standing room section?
Now, each show will have its own rules to follow about the standing room section. These rules will be discussed in two sections, regular shows, and Hadestown.
Most shows will lead ticket holders to their assigned spot right when you walk into the theater and then give all standing room members a speech when everyone has arrived describing the individual shows rules for standing room. This normally includes things liket that leaning on the railing is allowed, but not far enough that you annoy the person in front of you, and to keep the space behind you clear for the theater staff to pass by you during the show.
In terms of bags, most shows will have you place these at your feet so they do not block walking pathways.
Some shows will tell you that you are free to take any open seats after intermission. Others will come and find you at intermission to escort you to any empty seats. It should not be assumed that you will be given a seat, but it is a distinct posibility at most shows. Merely be sure that you follow whatever an individual show's rules are regarding taking a seat from standing room.
Hadestown's standing room has a few additional rules.
The Walter Kerr Theatre where Hadestown plays on Broadway barely has room for standing room. there really isn't enough room for it behind the orchestra so there are some extra rules.
So what are these extra rules? First, you will not be allowed to your spot until about five minutes before the start of the show. There just isn't enough room for you to stand there and for people to pass behind you to get to their spots. If you arrive before this, use that time to go look at the merchandise, stop at the bar, or use the restroom. For the same reason, you will not be allowed to stay in this spot during intermission, and you will be led to a waiting location as soon as the lights come up. Don't try to stay, they will move you. I reached down to grab my bag on the floor and had an usher telling me I needed to move before I stood back up.
Standing room is a great way to cheaply see a popular Broadway show, just be sure you are respectful to both the staff and your fellow theater-goers if you choose to see a show this way. It makes it a better experience for everyone involved.
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