August 31, 2010
We Tried It: Hiptix

Our team at Postabon enjoys seeing different musicals and plays both on-and-off Broadway, but what we don’t enjoy is spending a ridiculous amount of money on a show.  Since we’re all pretty young, luckily we can take advantage of Hiptix.

The Deal: If you are under 35, you can get discounted theater tickets to different Roundabout Theater Shows through a program called Hiptix.  Postabon member colantoni tells us that you can see Mrs. Warren’s Profession for only $20, thanks to Hiptix. Simply call the box office, ask to join Hiptix and then you can get tickets at a discounted rate.  To prove your age, you must present an ID at the box office when picking up your tickets.

Is It Truly A Deal?:  If I purchased tickets directly from the theater to see Mrs. Warren’s Profession, tickets were priced from $67-$117.  Just because I’m under 35, I’m able to get a seat for $20 - so I’ll be saving at least $47.  

Pros:  Sometimes you can get additional savings.  Around holiday weekends such as Thanksgiving, Hiptix will discount ticket prices even more, so you can catch a show for only $10.  For the foodies reading this blog, when purchasing tickets, you may want to buy tickets to a performance that is having a post-show reception (see the Special Events tab on Hiptix’s site).  Not only will you be able to meet the cast, but you’ll also get free food and drinks.

Cons:  Forget about seeing a show in a big group.  Hiptix allows you to bring only one other guest with you, and that guest will need to show his or her ID too to get the $20 rate.  Let’s just say my dad was bummed he couldn’t be a plus one. Also, keep in mind you can’t pick your seats so you most likely won’t get the best seat in the house.  The venues are usually small though, so you’ll still get a good view of the stage. 

From our experience, we had difficulty joining the Hiptix email subscription list when we tried signing up by email.  Therefore, if interested in joining, you may want to call and request to be on the list so you can start seeing show offers in your inbox. Alternatively, you can just log on to Hiptix from time to time to see what shows are available.

Our 2 Cents:  If you enjoy theater, Hiptix is a great way to see different plays and musicals without breaking the bank.  If the show you pick isn’t your cup of tea, at least you can smile at the fact that you spent $47 less than the guy sitting next to you.  Who said being cultured had to cost a fortune?

May 7, 2010
Musicals and Plays That Don’t Break the Bank

Last weekend with my parents in town, we decided to see Next to Normal, a Tony award winning musical on Broadway.  While we purchased tickets to see this show at 40% off at TKTS, they still were a bit pricey, at $78 a ticket (luckily dad picked up the bill). 

Being cultured and seeing a show doesn’t mean that you should have to dip into your savings.  In the spirit of the Tony Award nominations being announced this week, below you’ll find some of our favorite deals on musicals and plays going on right now in NYC.  

Rock of Ages:  Child of the 80s?  Then you’ll love Rock of Ages.  This musical has pulled together a storyline based around your favorite songs of the 80s - which is perfect for the guy who doesn’t want to have to pay attention to the lyrics to understand what the musical is all about.  At select performances through June 13, you can save 45% off tickets (you’ll get $69 tickets!) as well as get a free drink by using the code ROAMET.  According to Postabon member Colantoni, this is valid only at Monday at 8, Tuesday at 7, Thursday at 8 and Sunday at 7:30.  (256 W. 47th between Broadway and 8th).

Stomp:  If you’ve ever wanted to go see Stomp, our advice is to go on Sundays.  Stomp, the shwo that involves banging of trash cans, dancing and just a ton of percussion, offers $40 tickets on Sunday night performances.  Thanks to user DanaG for this deal! (126 2nd Ave between 12th and 13th St).

Graceland:  If you’d prefer to see a play at an affordable price, check out Graceland, a play about siblings coming to terms with a parent’s suicide.  While the subject matter seems a little deep, you won’t have to dig deep into your pockets for this show - all seats are $20.  Better yet, if you have a ticket to the May 11th performance and are under 40, you are invited to a party with the cast.  Enjoy free drinks, free snacks and a raffle.  Show runs through May 29. (229 W. 42nd St, between 7th and 8th).

Know of any other good show promotions going on right now?  Add them to Postabon!