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How to get front row tickets for Wicked?

Getting front row tickets for the hit musical Wicked can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible! Wicked is one of the most popular shows on Broadway, known for its elaborate sets, costumes, and special effects. Sitting in the front row allows you to fully immerse yourself in the spectacle, making it a coveted experience for many theatergoers. While front row seats are in high demand, there are ways to increase your chances of securing those prime seats. Doing your research, planning ahead, being flexible, and utilizing tricks and tools can all help get you closer to the Emerald City.

Why do people want front row seats?

There are several key reasons why the front row is so desirable for Wicked:

  • Proximity to the action – Sitting in the front puts you right in the heart of the story. You’ll feel like you’re part of the show.
  • Better view – You’ll be able to see intricate details in the set, costumes, and performers’ expressions up close.
  • Immersive experience – With the elaborate sets and effects, you’ll feel like you’re in Oz yourself.
  • Photo opportunities – You can capture great pictures and videos to remember the experience.
  • Bragging rights – Scoring those tough tickets comes with serious Broadway cred.

For serious musical theater fans, the magic of being feet from the witch herself is a huge draw. The front row allows you to get the most out of this spectacular show.

When to get tickets

Timing is important when trying to get front row Wicked tickets. Here are some key times worth targeting:

  • Right when tickets go on sale – Be ready to pounce when new blocks of tickets are released to get first pick of seats.
  • During slow seasons – Attend during less popular times like late summer and January/February when demand is lower.
  • Mid-week shows – Fridays and Saturdays are most competitive. Aim for Tuesday through Thursday.
  • Holiday weeks – Many locals go out of town for the holidays, opening up seats.

Avoid peak tourism seasons like Christmas and spring break weeks. Shooting for lower demand days and times can make snagging those front row spots much more attainable.

Booking early

The further in advance you can buy tickets, the better your chances at securing front row seats. Here are some tips:

  • Check theater websites frequently – Additional seats may be released over time leading up to a performance. Be ready to pounce when they appear.
  • Sign up for pre-sales – As a fan club member or email list subscriber, you can often access tickets before the general public.
  • Mark your calendar – If you know specific dates you want to attend, be ready when tickets go on sale for those performances.

Booking as far in advance as possible allows you first crack at the seat inventory before it sells out. For ultra high-demand shows like Wicked, this can make a big difference.

Using presales and lotteries

Presales and lotteries give fans early access to tickets before the general public. Here are some of the main options for Wicked:

  • Wicked Fan Club – Members get access to exclusive ticket presales for newly announced performances.
  • Verified Fan Presales – Sign up via Ticketmaster for presale ticket access.
  • Broadway Direct – This ticket retailer offers presales for select shows.
  • TodayTix Lottery – Enter this daily lottery for $25-$40 tickets. Front row wins are rare but possible!
  • Box Office Rush – A limited number of $25 front row tickets are sold at the box office starting at 10 am on day of show.

Entering these special promotions, especially fan presales, can give you an upper hand in securing those front row spots. You’ll face less competition than the general public onsale.

Using dynamic pricing to your advantage

Wicked ticket prices vary based on demand, with popular performances commanding higher prices. You can use this dynamic pricing to your advantage in landing front row seats:

  • Avoid “Premium” performances – These are highest demand and price. Front row will be very tough to get.
  • Check for price drops – As the show date approaches, prices may fall if tickets are still available.
  • Ask about upgrades – If shows aren’t selling out, you may be able to pay a small upgrade fee for a front row seat.
  • Last minute deals – Front row spots sometimes open up last minute as the theater releases holds. Check frequently leading up to showtime.

Being flexible on performance dates and taking advantage of lower demand times is key. With dynamic pricing, you can strategize around ticket price fluctuations.

Tools and services

Several handy tools and services exist to unlock access to prime seats:

  • Ticketmaster Verified Fan – This gives you early access to buy tickets during presales so you can get front row before others.
  • BroadwayBox – Check this site for front row ticket availability and real time deals.
  • Theater Extras – Offers add-on experiences like backstage tours and post-show meet and greets with cast members.
  • Theatermonkey – Features detailed seating charts so you can browse front row availability.
  • Lucky Seat – Entering Lotteries for premium seats for hard-to-get shows.

These services provide insider access and tips that can get you closer to that coveted front row experience.

Joining fan clubs

Diehard Wicked fans know that official fan clubs offer perks like presale ticket access. Some options include:

  • The Wicked Fan Club – Get access to exclusive ticket presales, merchandise, experiences and more.
  • Wicked Stage Door – Meet cast members after the show and get autographed merchandise.
  • Wicked Bway on Facebook/Twitter – Official fan pages announce new ticket blocks and presales.
  • r/Broadway – The Broadway subreddit has meetups, ticket exchanges and show discussion.
  • BroadwayWorld Message Board – Fans share tips and meet up for shows.

For superfans, being part of the Wicked community can translate into insider ticket access. Plus you’ll connect with fellow fans who share your passion!

Booking individual tickets vs. groups

You can book front row tickets for Wicked as an individual or as part of a group. Both options have pros and cons:

Individual Tickets

  • More flexibility on dates – Choose the performance time that works best for you.
  • Better seat selection – Get the exact seat you want rather than settling.
  • Fewer tickets needed – You only need to source 1-2 great seats.
  • Simple booking – Purchase direct without coordinating schedules.

Group Tickets

  • Group discounts -save 15-20% off ticket prices in group orders of 15+ tickets.
  • Priority access – Groups get early access to reserve seats together before individual sales open.
  • More social experience – Attend together with friends or family.
  • Flexibility – Modify group size and seats if needed.

If attending solo or with one other person, individual tickets will be simpler. For big gatherings, a group order locks in a block of seats.

Being flexible on your dates

If your schedule permits, staying flexible on performance dates can significantly improve your chances of getting front row seats. Here are some tips:

  • Check multiple dates – Don’t get set on just one or two ideal days. Search across a wider range.
  • Consider off-peak times – Early week and matinee shows are easier than weekend evenings.
  • Have backup dates – Start with your ideal dates but have alternates in mind in case tickets sell out.
  • Track calendar shifts – Shows sometimes add performances or change schedules, opening up new dates.
  • Allow schedule wiggle room – Make sure you can adjust your calendar if needed to accommodate the tickets you can get.

Remaining open minded on timing will provide you with the maximum number of front row opportunities. With extreme flexibility, you can likely pin down the perfect seats.

Booking individual tickets vs ticket packs

When buying Wicked tickets, you can either purchase single tickets for one performance at a time, or buy ticket packs bundling multiple shows:

Individual Tickets

  • Only pay for what you need – Avoid buying extras you may not use.
  • Lock in specific dates – Pick the exact performance time you want.
  • Buy closer to the show – Take advantage of last minute deals as they pop up.
  • Split up group – Buy tickets together but for different performances.

Ticket Packs

  • Discounts – Save up to 20% versus buying individual tickets.
  • Exchanges – Switch dates at no extra charge based on availability.
  • Reselling – Unused tickets can be resold, recouping some costs.
  • Gifting – Share extras with friends and family.

If you know you want to see the show multiple times, bundled multi-show packs offer savings and flexibility. For a single experience, individual tickets allow finer control.

Comparing ticket sources

Where you buy tickets from can impact everything from availability to pricing to perks. Here’s how some of the main sources stack up for scoring front row Wicked seats:

Ticket Source Front Row Access Pricing Perks
Box Office Day of show rush tickets Face value pricing Avoid fees
Broadway.com Advance access Dynamic pricing Policies vary
Fan clubs Presales Discounted VIP access
Resellers Last minute Markups common Refunds unlikely

The source you choose can significantly impact everything from seat options to costs. Shop around for the best fit.

Being persistent and patient

Snagging those front row spots often requires persistence and patience. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Check back frequently – New seats can open up anytime leading up to shows.
  • Try multiple sources – Availability can vary across box offices, websites, brokers.
  • Follow up on waiting lists – Producers may release holds closer to showtime.
  • Consider standby – You can take your chances in standby lines at the theater too.
  • Don’t give up too soon – Prime seats can open up at the last minute.

With high demand shows, scoring front row seats comes down to determination. Stay persistent in your searching and be ready to jump when hot tickets pop up.

Managing your budget

Front row Wicked tickets don’t come cheap. Prices typically start around $300 and can exceed $600 for weekend shows. Some budget tips:

  • Off-peak shows are cheaper – Attend matinees and early week performances to save.
  • Compare across dates – Prices fluctuate so search a wide range of days.
  • Split costs with others – Attend in a group and share expenses.
  • Look for promo codes – Check site for potential discounts before purchasing.
  • Consider partial views – You can sometimes save with aisle or far side front row seats.
  • Weigh add-ons – Upgrades like backstage tours add to the costs.

While splurging on front row is a special treat, you can look for ways to trim expenses like avoiding weekends and talling advantage of promotions.

Is it worth it to pay more for front row?

Front row seats are undoubtedly expensive, so is springing for them really worth it?

Advantages of front row:

  • One-of-a-kind experience seeing the show up close.
  • You’ll be at the heart of the action and effects.
  • Gain new appreciation for the incredible talents of the performers.
  • Unique photo opportunities to capture memories.
  • Thrill of telling friends you sat front row for this iconic show.

Considerations:

  • Viewing angles are more distorted the closer you are.
  • You may have to crane your neck for some scenes.
  • You lose some perspective by being so close.
  • Proximity highlights imperfections not visible further back.
  • You’ll pay a hefty premium over standard seating.

Ultimately, the splurge is worth it for many as a bucket list theatrical event. But the higher costs and imperfect viewing angles merit consideration.

Conclusion

While nabbing those front row seats for Wicked takes effort and luck, it can be an incredible Broadway experience for superfans. By leveraging presales, knowing optimal timing, using ticket tools, and persisting across sources, you can dramatically improve your chances at scoring seats with a front-row view. Given the show’s popularity, it will take determination and flexibility. But with strategic planning, the right timing, and a little luck, those coveted spots could be yours to enjoy the magic up close and personal.