Broadway show schedule: When to see shows, ticket tips, and what’s playing
When you’re planning a night out in New York, the Broadway show schedule, the official timing and performance calendar for Broadway theatre productions. Also known as Broadway performance times, it tells you exactly when you can catch a musical or play—whether it’s a matinee on Wednesday or a Friday night premiere. This isn’t just a list of dates. It’s the rhythm of the city’s biggest live entertainment scene. Shows run eight times a week, with most starting at 7:30 PM, but matinees on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays give you more options to fit your plans. The schedule changes with the season, holidays, and even actor availability—so checking the official site before you buy is non-negotiable.
Behind every show on the schedule is a whole system. Broadway premiere, the first official public performance of a new show. Also known as opening night, it’s when critics show up, the cast gets nervous, and the lights go up for the very first time. That’s not just a show—it’s an event. Then there’s the money side: Broadway actor salary, how much performers earn weekly under union rules. Also known as stage actor pay, it ranges from the union minimum of $2,406 to over $50,000 for stars. Most actors don’t make it rich off one show—they juggle side gigs, teaching, or commercials. And then there’s Wicked Broadway, the long-running musical about the witches of Oz that’s become a cultural touchstone. Also known as the Wicked musical, it’s not scary, but it’s emotionally heavy—perfect for teens and up. It’s one of the most consistent sellers on the schedule, often booking up months ahead.
Knowing the schedule means knowing when to buy. Tuesday is the best day for discounts—same-day deals pop up online. Avoid Sunday nights if you want to skip the crowds. And don’t assume the cheapest seat is the worst—some of the best views come from the sides, not the center. The schedule isn’t just about when the show starts. It’s about when you need to plan, when you can save, and when you’ll get the full experience. Below, you’ll find real stories from people who’ve been there—their ticket wins, their opening night nerves, and the quiet moments that made the whole thing worth it.
