Next to Normal

I promised to blog on Broadway shows that we've seen, so here's the first one and one of my favorite shows. Next to Normal is about a family's struggle with tragedy and how each of them handles that particular tragedy. The music, plot and acting are all fabulous. What is most important to me is that it covers a topic that is not only meaningful, but also relatable. I won't be giving any details away because that would spoil it for you. What I will give you are details on how to watch this show using the most cost-efficient method. This show has what is called a general lottery for that day's performance. That means someone will be in front of the theater itself handing out pieces of paper that you will fill out with your name and the number of tickets you want. This show allows a maximum of 2 tickets per person. You must always put down 2 tickets. Some shows will not allow you to change from 1 to 2 tickets once you have already put that down and your name has been called. They all allow you to change the other way--from 2 tickets to 1. For this show's lottery, you have to be at the theater at least 2 hours before the performance. It is at this time that the pieces of paper that were filled out are mixed in a bucket and about 14 names are called. The lucky names called get to see this show from either the box seats or the front row at a price of $25 per ticket ($50 if you asked for 2 tickets). It is extremely important that you bring a legitimate form of ID for the lottery. Without that, they will not be selling you any of the lottery tickets. The tickets are sold cash only.

Mondays: Show is at 8 and lottery is at 6.
Tuesdays: Show is at 7 and lottery is at 5.
Thursdays to Friday: Show is at 8 and lottery is at 6.
Saturday: There is a show at 2 and lottery is at 12.
Saturday: There is a show at 8 and lottery is at 6.
Sunday: There is a show at 3 and lottery is at 1.
Sunday: There is a show at 7:30 and lottery is at 5:30

Next to Normal is playing at the Booth Theater, 222 West 45th St. (45th St.and 7th Ave.)

I always prefer front row seats but, for this show, the box seats are just as great because a lot scenes happen on the 2nd floor or top portion of the "house".

So to summarize: always fill in 2 tickets on the form, bring ID and cash, and be on time.

I will probably see you there since seeing this show twice is not enough. Good luck to all of you.