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What Is a Broadway Matinee? An Introductory Guide for First-Timers

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Published on: Aug 8, 2024
By: Emma Levin
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Broadway

If you’re interested in playing hooky, then see a Broadway matinee! Matinees are full of perks, especially if you’re only in NYC for the day. The performance ends at a reasonable hour and is a flexible option for children or seniors. With a matinee, no one has to miss their bedtime! 

Plus, matinees are just as special as evening performances. Most Broadway shows schedule two matinees a week with no changes in the cast or talent. They’re the perfect mid-day escape with plenty of time left to make your dinner reservation.

With a Broadway matinee, you can still see some of the best theater in NYC, but at a convenient time that works for you. If you’re curious about seeing your first matinee, here’s an introductory guide to enjoying the perfect afternoon of theater.

What time do Broadway matinees start?

Broadway matinees are scheduled in the early afternoon. Most start somewhere between 1 pm and 3 pm, so you can start your day with a big NYC breakfast or lunch before heading into an afternoon of entertainment. 

Be aware that showtimes can vary depending on the day and occasion, like summer vacation and federal and school holidays. Plus, not every matinee’s start time is consistent across the week. For example, The Lion King’s matinee on Wednesday and Saturday plays at 2 p.m., but on Sunday, showtime is at 1 p.m. 

School holidays, federal holidays, and even terrible weather can shift a matinee’s start time. Double-checking the show’s details on their website is important so you’re not late to curtain. 

What days does Broadway have matinees?

Most Broadway productions operate on a six-days-a-week schedule, showing eight shows a week. Mondays are commonly known as a “dark day” when the theater is closed. 

Many shows will schedule a standard of two matinees per week, typically on a Wednesday or a Saturday. Some popular productions will also schedule a matinee on a Sunday. 

Keep in mind that not all matinees play on the same day of the week. Some shows have different matinee days in the summertime versus the winter, or add extra showtimes on school holidays. It’s important to check the show’s schedule so you don’t miss the show or arrive late.

Popular Broadway shows with matinee performances

If you’re not a night owl or have kids in tow, then a Broadway matinee may be the better fit for you. An early bedtime does not mean sacrificing the theater! Here are some of the most popular shows on Broadway with matinee performances. 

*These matinee performance times are current as of July 2024.

The Lion King on Broadway

The Lion King

The Lion King is an iconic Broadway show that every theater lover must see once. It retells the Disney story, but with incredible production, costuming, and choreography which leaves audiences in awe. With a storyline that will pull at the heartstrings for both children and adults alike, The Lion King remains incredibly popular even 27 years later. Be sure to secure tickets ahead of time for one of their matinees. 

Matinee Schedule: Wednesday & Saturday - 2.00 pm | Sunday - 1.00 pm

Wicked

Wicked is a family-friendly musical with energetic performances and a sparkling production. The story provides a new perspective of Oz as you follow two unlikely friends as they face the ultimate villain–the Wizard. Wicked is a hugely popular musical, so try to buy your matinee tickets ahead of your trip to NYC. 

Matinee Schedule: Tuesday - 2.00 pm | Saturday - 2.00 pm

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Reenter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in this magical sequel to the books. Whether you read the story yourself or you’re introducing your children to Harry Potter, this amazing production may make you believe in magic. The show is a longer production at three and a half hours, so take that into account and schedule extra time in your day. 

Matinee Schedule: Wednesday & Saturday - 1.00 pm | Sunday - 1.00 pm or 3.00 pm

Book-of-Mormon

The Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is a satirical comedy about challenging faith, class differences, and self-acceptance. Known for its irreverent humor, it still supplies plenty of heart and leaves its audience in good spirits. Due to the complex subject matter, this musical is best for adults and older teens. 

Matinee Schedule: Saturday -1.00 pm | Sunday - 2.00 pm

Hamilton advertisement on stage door

Hamilton

A modern classic, Hamilton is one of Broadway’s best new musicals in the last ten years. It’s won 11 Tony Awards and remains a show-stopping hit that has a profound effect on theatergoers. Lauded for its racially diverse casting, the musical follows the amazing life of Alexander Hamilton and his part in building American democracy. Hamilton is a bucket list musical for tourists and NYC locals, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.

Matinee Schedule: Wednesday & Saturday & Sunday - 1.00pm

Highly rated Broadway Shows with matinee performances

The most popular shows achieve Broadway accolades for a reason, but if you’re looking for a show under the radar, here are some that the critics love. 

*All shows are current as of July 2024.

Hell's Kitchen at the Shubert Theatre

Hell’s Kitchen

Hell’s Kitchen has made a recent splash on Broadway thanks to the genius mind of Alicia Keys. The musical is a loose biography of Alicia Keys’ upbringing in the iconic NYC neighborhood. It’s a charming, vibrant production that is sure to delight theatergoers. Due to some mature themes, this musical is best for adults and older teens. 

Matinee Schedule:  Wednesday & Saturday - 2.00 pm  | Sunday - 2.00 pm or 3.00 pm

The Outsiders at the Bernard B Jacobs Theatre

The Outsiders

Based on S.E. Hinton’s novel, the beloved tale of The Outsiders has been reimagined as a musical. Exploring themes of self-discovery, class, and acceptance, The Outsiders tugs at our heartstrings even in the 21st century. It’s an exciting and beautiful musical that theatergoers love and was the recent winner of the 2024 Tony Award for Best Musical. 

Matinee Schedule: Wednesday & Saturday - 2.00 pm  | Sunday - 3.00 pm

Stereophonic

Stereophonic

Stereophonic is a new Broadway showstopper that hit the stage in October of 2023. It tells the story of an up-and-coming band on the brink of stardom as they craft a new album. Will they enjoy the fruits of their creation, or will traumas break them apart? As the 2024 Tony Award Winner for Best Play, Stereophonic is a music-loving, emotional ride. Due to mature themes, no children under four are allowed, and it is better suited for adults and older teens. 

Matinee Schedule: Wednesday & Saturday - 1.00 pm  | Sunday - 2.00 pm

How to see a matinee if you’re in NYC this week

Are you planning a trip to New York City this week? This is how you can catch a matinee performance. 

Check the show’s schedule 

You can check a show’s schedule by going to the production’s website or checking out the list of current shows running on BestBroadwayMusicals.com. Then, purchase tickets through the website. 

Head to TKTS Booth 

Are you in NYC last minute or looking to secure cheaper tickets? You can head to the Times Square TKTS Booth to see which shows have discounted tickets. The TKTS Booth is open every day of the week, and they open at 11 am for matinees on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and weekends. You can either get tickets for the same-day or next-day matinee. 

Plan ahead 

If you’re deciding which day to see a matinee, consider seeing a show earlier in the week. The earliest days of the week are the slowest times at the theater.  You’re more likely to secure tickets or grab a discounted ticket if you see a matinee performance on a Wednesday or Thursday rather than a Saturday or a Sunday. 

Are matinee performances less expensive than evening performances?

Generally, matinee performances are cheaper than evening performances. This is because evening performances are more popular and can accommodate a wide range of schedules. Only so many people have the flexibility to see a show in the middle of a Wednesday afternoon. 

However, there is no hard and fast rule that all matinees are cheaper. If the show is particularly popular or if it’s the holidays, then all show times will be in demand. Buying your tickets in advance or going for a less popular show can mean a cheaper matinee ticket price.

What should I wear to a Broadway matinee show?

Dress attire for a Broadway show can vary, especially on the time of year and time of day. Many theatergoers dress smart casual, and some even dress up for evening performances. For matinee performances, it’s okay to be a bit more casual. Matinee attendees are usually exploring NYC and have other activities planned throughout their day. Plus, if you’re seeing a show in the summertime in NYC, you’re battling high temperatures! Wearing shorts and other casual clothes is more widely acceptable at matinees.

However, some attendees still use the theater outing as an opportunity to dress up. Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable, but leave the flip-flops at home.

Perks of seeing a Broadway matinee performance

Less crowded 

A matinee performance will be less crowded in comparison to an evening performance. If you’re someone who struggles with crowds, then a midweek matinee could be the perfect solution. 

Flexible timing 

Some theatergoers don’t enjoy the late nights at the theater. Matinees still promise a thrilling story but without the 11 pm end time. Also, if you’re visiting New York City for the day, a matinee means you won’t miss the last train out. 

Family-friendly and senior-friendly 

Matinees historically cater to families and aging adults. This is due to the time of day and the smaller crowds present at matinees. The timing is more convenient as the kids won’t miss their bedtime, and you can easily make your dinner reservation! 

See a double-feature

Interested in seeing double the theater in one single day? You can grab matinee tickets to Wicked and then see Stereophonic that same evening. You can rush tickets or head to the TKTS Booth to catch your evening show tickets. 

No difference between a matinee and an evening show 

There is no difference between a matinee and an evening performance. The only difference is it’s still light out when you leave the show! You should not expect a switch in the cast or talent for a matinee. However, some shows will schedule a weekly alternate if a role is more vocally demanding. 

Final thoughts on a guide to Broadway matinees

A Broadway matinee is the perfect way to see some of the best talent in New York City at a flexible time of the day. There are no changes between a matinee and an evening show, just the time you exit the theater! Each performance promises a unique experience and a magical afternoon for theatergoers. So, pick a production that speaks to you and purchase your tickets to experience some of the best theater in NYC.

Emma Levin Headshot

Emma Levin

Contributing Author

Emma Levin is a freelance marketing writer with a passion for the creative arts. She’s written short and long-form copy for several brands in the arts, food & beverage, and e-commerce space. In her spare time, she’s perusing the library, visiting new cafes, and planning her next international trip. You can connect with her on her writing portfolio at emmakimlevin.journoportfolio.com.


Education: Drew University, Bachelor's in English Literature

Published

Oct 27, 2024

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