What should I wear to the theatre?
For theatre, there is no actual dress code. Patrons' attire runs the gamut from evening clothes (gowns, suits) to casual dress (jeans, pullovers). Most patrons will dress in a casual nice clothing, much like one would wear to a business meeting. Jackets and ties are not required. Special performances, such as an opening night or benefit, should be attended with more formal clothing. Generally speaking, patrons will dress finer in the busy fall months (October through December).

When should I arrive?
Theatres open their doors to the auditorium one half-hour before performance time. If you have your tickets in hand, arriving at the theatre more than 30 minutes early is unnecessary. If your tickets are being held at the will-call (or tonight's reservations) window, you should allow additional time in anticipation of the line.

Is tipping expected?
Except for the servers at the refreshment stand, no one at the theatre expects to be tipped for their service. Ushers will seat you when you enter the auditorium, and distribute one program per patron; these programs are complimentary.

Do I have to wait for an usher to find my seat?
Most Broadway theatres can hold 1,500 patrons or more. All these people will be sat in assigned seats within 30 minutes. To avoid disturbances or confusion, it is urged that you allow ushers to seat you even if you are certain of the location of your seat.

What happens if I arrive to the theatre late?
Once you purchase a ticket, it is yours now and forever. Latecomers' tickets will not be resold without your express consent or request. Tickets are held under your name at the will-call window at the box office. Should the box office close for the evening (usually about 8:30pm) before you arrive, the tickets are then held with the house manager or head usher in the outer lobby. Late seating is at the discretion of the house manager, and you might be required to stand in the back of the auditorium until there is a suitable break in the performance to seat you with minimal disruption for everyone. This period of waiting could run as long as fifteen minutes, but remember that staff does wish to seat you as quickly as possible to clear the passages.

If there are empty seats available after the lights dim, may I change my seat?
No one is likely to physically stop you, but it is not a good idea. Remember that latecomers might still be on the way, and if you are in their seat it will only add to the disruption when they arrive. It is better to wait until intermission before changing seats -- it is safe to assume that any empty by then are likely to remain empty for the duration of the performance. To be completely sure, you can always ask an usher before switching seats.

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