Are you planning a trip to London and hoping to catch a show in the West End? If so, you may be wondering if it’s possible to score cheap theatre tickets on the day of the performance.
The answer is yes, but it requires some effort and flexibility. Here are some tips for getting your hands on discounted tickets.
Check for Day Seats
Many theatres offer a limited number of day seats, which are unsold tickets that go on sale at the box office on the day of the performance. These seats are usually located in the front row or other premium sections of the theatre and can be purchased for a fraction of the regular price. However, they are only available on a first-come, first-served basis and can sell out quickly.
Be Prepared to Queue
If you’re hoping to get day seats, be prepared to queue up early in the morning – often before 10am – as many theatres start selling them as soon as their box office opens. Some popular shows may have people lining up even earlier than that, so do your research in advance.
Visit TKTS Booths
Another option for discounted theatre tickets is to visit one of London’s TKTS booths, which sell same-day tickets at discounted prices (usually around 30-50% off). There are two TKTS booths in London – one in Leicester Square and one in Canary Wharf – and they both open at 10am daily.
Consider Midweek Shows
If you’re flexible with your schedule, consider attending a midweek show instead of a weekend performance. Many theatres offer discounted tickets for midweek performances as they tend to have lower attendance than weekend shows.
Join Theatre Clubs
Some theatres offer membership clubs that provide access to discounted tickets and other perks, such as priority booking and invitations to special events. Examples include the Ambassador Theatre Group’s ATG TheatreCard and the Society of London Theatre’s TKTS membership scheme.
Be Flexible with Your Seating
Finally, if you’re open to sitting in less desirable seats (such as those with restricted views or located at the back of the theatre), you may be able to find cheaper tickets even if you’re not able to get day seats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to buy cheap theatre tickets on the day of the performance in London, but it requires some effort and flexibility. By checking for day seats, visiting TKTS booths, attending midweek shows, joining theatre clubs, and being flexible with your seating options, you can save money while still enjoying a top-notch theatrical experience.