Broadway for Student Groups: What You Need to Know Before Your Trip

How to get tickets, score group discounts, stay up-to-date on theatre etiquette, and make the most of a Broadway experience for your students. 

Broadway is renowned for hosting a myriad of breathtaking performances, from timeless masterpieces to the newest spectacles, drawing in throngs of visitors each year. However, for students, the Theatre District offers more than just entertainment; it functions as an open-air classroom that imparts insights on empathy, art, culture, and history. Attending a Broadway show provides students with an enriching experience that extends beyond the stage. 

There are a few ways to ensure that your students get the full value from their Broadway trip. By incorporating workshops led by Broadway professionals, students can gain valuable insights into acting, dancing, and behind-the-scenes operations, enhancing their understanding of the theatrical world. Learning about theatre etiquette allows students to fully appreciate the performance and show respect for the people on stage and fellow audience members. This guide equips you with all the necessary tools—selecting your show, booking group tickets, and maximizing their Broadway adventure—ensuring it is both educational and memorable.

Inspire the Next Generation of Performers – Introduce students to the magic of Broadway with guidance from Student Travel Pro and hassle-free booking via Broadway Inbound.

Tips for Choosing a Show

Broadway’s current season offers an exciting array of productions that serve as an ideal gateway to the theatrical world for students. This diverse line-up includes musicals with catchy melodies and dynamic choreography, alongside thought-provoking dramas that examine and question societal norms. With such variety, each student is likely to find something that sparks their interest and allows them to see themselves reflected on stage.

When choosing a Broadway show for your school group, consider several important factors to ensure an enriching experience. Begin with age recommendations to ensure the production is appropriate for your students’ maturity level, making certain that the material will be relatable and positively impactful. It’s also vital to consider specific educational touchpoints; select shows that offer lessons or insights that complement the school curriculum. By integrating these educational elements, students can enjoy a memorable learning opportunity outside the classroom, sparking their interest in continued study.

Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of the show’s entertainment value and appeal to the students. Choosing a production that engages and resonates with them enhances the likelihood of a positive and unforgettable theatre outing. A great idea is to identify several shows that meet these criteria and allow students to participate in the final selection process through a group vote. Broadway Inbound’s educational resources and study guides are a helpful tool in show selection. An inclusive approach, coupled with carefully selected educational resources, ensures a theatre visit that is both informative and enjoyable.

Titles to Consider

• Hamilton, renowned for its groundbreaking fusion of hip-hop and musical theatre, has revolutionized the Broadway scene while altering perceptions of American history. Inspired by Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda masterfully transformed the tale of one of America’s founding fathers into a cultural sensation. This acclaimed Broadway musical tells of the journey of an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s trusted aide during the Revolutionary War and served as the first Treasury Secretary of the newly formed nation. By blending traditional storytelling with modern music genres, Hamilton offers a refreshing and invigorating take on historical storytelling.
• The Great Gatsby, based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, offers a profound exploration of the American Dream, love, wealth, and disillusionment, set against the lavish backdrop of the Jazz Age, illustrating the opulent yet ultimately hollow lives of the affluent. In 2024, this classic made a remarkable transition from page to Broadway, becoming an essential theatrical event. Featuring imaginative set designs and an unforgettable jazz- and pop-infused score, the production masterfully maintains the essence of the novel while incorporating a modern twist, making it more accessible to today’s audience. It provides high school students a fresh way to engage with this classic, transforming a standard reading assignment into an engaging theatrical experience. Themes of wealth, ephemeral success, and the destructive power of obsessive love offer rich material for classroom discussions and deeper reflection.
• The Outsiders, a beloved story since its 1967 debut, is revitalized on Broadway under the direction of Tony winner Danya Taymor. This adaptation brings to life the tale of friendship, societal divides, and lost innocence, set in 1960s Tulsa, Oklahoma. Exploring the challenges of adolescence and class divisions, the show presents its themes in an accessible way for younger audiences, prompting thoughtful reflection. It emphasizes empathy, urging viewers to move beyond societal labels, while highlighting the destructiveness of violence and the strength found in unity and friendship. For high school students, the production serves as a compelling narrative about understanding and connection.
• & Juliet offers a vibrant and contemporary reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic tale of Juliet and her Romeo, making it an ideal choice for high school groups. This Broadway musical follows Juliet as she defies the traditional narrative, taking control of her own fate and embarking on an empowering journey. With a score featuring well-known pop hits and a witty, engaging script, the show combines music, drama, and dance to captivate audiences of all ages. High school students will resonate with its themes of self-discovery and empowerment, making & Juliet a lively and thought-provoking theatrical experience that invites reflection on identity and choices.

Getting Group Tickets to Broadway Shows

Broadway shows frequently offer group sales pricing, providing substantial discounts for parties typically of 10 or more. To take advantage of these deals, it’s important to start by purchasing from an official ticket source to avoid extra fees and ensure valid tickets. 

Broadway Inbound, a division of The Shubert Organization, is the most trusted provider of Broadway group tickets, offering competitive prices and a wide array of packages. They provide not only tickets but also engaging experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and workshops, catering to various interests and budgets.

Broadway ticket prices can fluctuate based on factors like the show, day of the week, and seating location. Generally, the more affordable tickets are for weekday performances in the rear orchestra or mezzanine areas, while premium prices are typically found for weekend evening performances in prime seats. Selecting a section and time that aligns with your group’s budget is crucial. For group ticket pricing details, visit broadwayinbound.com.

Broadway shows tend to go on sale months before they open, offering a great chance to secure tickets for a variety of performances that fit your group’s budget, especially if you can be flexible with your dates. It’s essential to book tickets early, as popular shows often sell out quickly.

A Theater Trip They’ll Never Forget – Browse student-friendly Broadway shows on Student Travel Pro and book the best group deals through Broadway Inbound.

Tips for Going to a Broadway Show

Theatre etiquette is key to ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance for ticket distribution and security, restroom visits, and finding your seat. Remember, latecomers might not be seated until there’s an appropriate pause in the show. 

Once inside, remember to turn off or silence electronic devices, as any noise or light can distract performers and fellow audience members. Talking, texting, or recording during the show is strictly forbidden.

As for dress code, Broadway doesn’t enforce a formal dress requirement, so smart-casual attire is perfectly acceptable. Prioritize comfort, given the duration of the performance, but dressing up a bit can enhance the occasion.

After a Broadway show, many fans gather outside the stage door to meet the performers, express their appreciation, and sometimes collect autographs. Adhering to stage door etiquette is important—be polite and patient, understanding that not all actors may be able or willing to stop for a chat or photos. Always respect their space and time, keep interactions brief, and ensure you allow others their turn. If seeking a photo or autograph, ask for permission and express gratitude for the performers’ time.

To fully experience the vibrancy of New York’s theatre district, plan your day around the show. Start by checking the show’s runtime listed on Broadway Inbound’s site. This helps to effectively schedule your day.

If attending an evening performance, spend the earlier part of your day exploring the iconic Times Square, just steps from most Broadway theatres. With its lively crowds, dazzling billboards, and numerous shopping options, Times Square is an experience of its own.

Don’t miss the historic Drama Book Shop, specializing in theatre and film books, perfect for picking up scripts, biographies, or show souvenirs. To deepen your appreciation of Broadway’s heritage, visit the Museum of Broadway, showcasing original costumes and memorabilia from legendary productions.

Additional Broadway Inbound Opportunities

Broadway Inbound is dedicated to unlocking the educational potential of theatre for young audiences by providing accessible resources. To enhance understanding and appreciation of each production, they offer an array of workshops and educational guides. These resources bridge the gap between the stage and classroom, turning each show into a captivating and interactive learning opportunity.

Broadway Inbound workshops enrich student group outings by immersing young audiences in the dynamic world of theatre. These engaging, interactive sessions are crafted to connect students directly with industry professionals, allowing them to gain invaluable insights into the performing arts. Covering a range of topics from acting and singing to dancing and stagecraft, the workshops cater to diverse interests and skill levels. By participating, students not only deepen their theatre knowledge and appreciation but also enhance vital skills such as teamwork, communication, and creativity. When planning a Broadway trip for students, incorporating a Broadway Inbound workshop ensures a comprehensive and enlightening theatre experience.

Exploring the world of Broadway provides students with exposure to diverse storytelling and artistic expressions, encouraging them to engage with significant themes and issues. Enhancing these experiences with a Broadway Inbound workshop adds a practical and interactive dimension to the learning process. By organizing a school group outing to one of these captivating shows, alongside a workshop, educators can create lasting memories for their students while fostering a deeper understanding of the world and what truly matters.

Broadway Awaits – Plan the Ultimate Student Trip – Get expert insights from Student Travel Pro and reserve your seats through Broadway Inbound.