Discount Theatre Tickets

Everyone loves the thrill of the theatre, the excitement of a musical and the passion of an opera – and if you know where to look it is possible to secure discount theatre tickets so you can see a show for less.

For younger theatre goers keep your student ID handy. Some of London’s theatres keep aside a small number of tickets for students who are willing to stand for the duration of the show. Before booking ask whether they offer any such tickets, or whether they can offer a student discount.

During the summer holidays children have the opportunity to see shows for free thanks to Kids Week. The scheme enables anyone between 5 and 16 to enjoy a free ticket when accompanied by a full-paying adult. Considering how expensive seats can get this is ideal for family outings.

If you don’t have a specific date that you want to see a show then it’s worth paying a visit to a theatre early in the morning. Several West End theatres keep aside a limited number of tickets which are released the morning of the performance and can go for as little as £10.

In a similar vein the ticket booths, located in Leicester Square and Brent Cross Shopping Centre, are the official outlets for discount theatre tickets. If you don’t mind what you see you can secure tickets for up to half the usual cost. Again, tickets are available for that day’s performance but you can often get top price tickets for less.

Booking in advance and comparing prices online is common now with theatre goers who want a bargain. Often by going through a third party you can secure a better price than going direct to the theatre. But, it’s worth searching around by doing online comparisons and calling the theatre direct.

But you do need to be cautious. Before booking anything online check that the website is authentic – does it have a UK-based address and a telephone number to call if there are any problems? This should help you avoid being duped.

Never purchase tickets from a ticket tout outside the theatre. The chances are your seats will also have been sold to several other people leaving you out of pocket and with no performance to even look forward to.

Before purchasing any tickets make sure you know what it is you’re buying. Many discount theatre tickets are cheap – not because they’re a bargain – but because they offer a restricted view. Consider whether not having a clear view of the stage is worth saving money for.

Check with agents, websites and anywhere else you purchase tickets from, where the seats are located and any possible restrictions that may affect your enjoyment of the show.

London has one of the best theatre scenes in the world – but it can also be one of the most expensive. So if you’re hoping to catch a performance in the West End make sure you look around first for discount theatre tickets.