Nothing can make you forget about the state of the world quite like bopping along to Mamma Mia or giggling at The Book of Mormon.

But with the average value of top price theatre tickets increasing by more than 21% since 2019, taking in a show can feel like a distant dream.

Thankfully, there are ways to see an award-wining performance at a discount price.

SeatPlan have revealed their tips and tricks to get tickets on a budget – making a trip to the theatre up to 41% cheaper.

Time your booking

Many shows, especially long-running performances in the West End, offer unsold seats at discounted prices on the day of the performance.

Jim Dixon, manager at SeatPlan said: ‘While this is not a guaranteed system, as sometimes all seats can sell out, this is particularly useful if you don’t mind taking the risk – it could save you up to 41%.’

Booking same-day tickets can be done via a performance’s websites, or by queueing at the box office on the day you’d like to attend.

Jim said: ‘If you queue but don’t manage to get a ticket, then the box office may be able to provide you with another discount for another day, or for another show, so it’s worth the trip if you have a free morning.’

But if you want more freedom, booking far in advance is best.

Jim added: ‘You should also consider the time of year you want to visit the theatre.

‘Unsurprisingly, school holidays and weekends are peak times, whereas weekdays are considered off-peak.’

Choose your seats wisely

You’ll be surprised at how much price difference there is between seats that are just rows apart, or in some cases, just seats apart.

The best seats in the house are usually in the centre of the stalls or the front row of the circle – but these tend to be the most expensive.

Jim said: ‘Instead of just following this rule, research different seats and consider the value for money of the tickets, as there are many other seats that offer equally incredibly views of the stage for a fraction of the price.’

The best way to find cheaper tickets is to opt for ones that offer a disclaimer for being “restricted view” seats.

‘Although the thought of restricted view seats might concern you, there are over 5,900 restricted view seats across London’s West End, and SeatPlan have over 9,200 reviews and images of them readily available, so you can assess whether they would be valuable,’ said Jim.

‘For example, a so-called restricted view in seat G4 in the Grand Circle at Mamma Mia will cost around £41 but still provide a 4.6/5 star viewing experience, yet the G5 seat jumps up to £59.50.’

If you’re looking for a festive show this winter, then have a look at the restricted seats at Frozen. As the Theatre Royal Drury Lane had a £60 million refurbishment, all the restricted views seats are rated highly. SeatPlan recommends opting for Grand Circle, B17 which can be found for just £29.80.

Check for deals

Depending on your age, occupation and even where you live, you could be entitled to reduced ticket prices.

Over 65s/Senior prices

Many theatres offer discounts for those aged 65+, mostly on weekday matinees. For example, the Royal Shakespeare Company offer discounted tickets on selected performances to those over 65 and London’s National Theatre offer over 60s discounts on midweek matinees across its biggest venues.

West End productions, including Mamma Mia, offers matinee discounts for those over 60.

Accessibility and disabled prices

Disabled customers are often offered discounts and reduced-rate tickets.

This is usually in the form of either a free ticket for a companion or carer, or up to 50% off the individual’s ticket price.

Jim said: ‘It’s worth contacting venue directly to ensure they can make arrangements in case you may need assistance during the show.

Key workers

If you work for the NHS, emergency services, social care sector or the armed forces then you are eligible for free or discounted tickets – which are usually granted upon proof of your workplace.

There are also dedicated schemes available. Blue Light Tickets provide tickets for performances to emergency service workers, and Tickets for Troops give tickets for Armed Forces members and their families.

Some venues will provide discounts directly when booking if you provide proof of your workplace, but this will vary so it’s worth checking with the venue. Otherwise, there are dedicated schemes available that you should sign up to, such as:

• Blue Light Tickets – providing tickets for numerous performances, such as sports, music and comedy 
• Tickets for Troops – providing theatre, sports and music events for Armed Forces members and their families.

Jim added: ‘It’s also always worth checking with your workplace to see if they have a rewards scheme that might grant you discounts.’

Neighbourhood theatre discounts

Some local theatres across the UK offer resident discounts – so if you live in the same area, you could be entitled to cheaper tickets.

There are various theatres across London that offer resident discounts, including the Old and Young Vic to Lambeth and Southwark residents.

Further north, The Lowry in Salford offers discounted tickets for Salford residents and the Birmingham Rep offers discounted tickets on specific performances for Erdington and Ladywood residents.

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