Imperial Theatre - "Smash" Seating Guide: Best Views & Value Tickets

Expert Recommendations for the Best Broadway Experience

As a historic Broadway venue with 1,443 seats, the Imperial Theatre offers excellent sightlines from most sections. For "Smash," here's how to maximize your experience at every price point, with detailed notes on view quality and seating nuances.

💰 Best Value Tickets ($146-$162)

✅ Rear Mezzanine (Rows C-F):

• RMEZZ Rows D/E: Best value at $146-147. Slight side angle but full stage visibility. Row D has better elevation than front mezzanine for viewing choreography.
• Row C: $147 tickets are center-placed with minimal obstruction from the mezzanine overhang.
• Note: Rows G-H start showing the balcony overhang effect - still good for price but lean toward earlier rows when possible.

🎯 Sweet Spot ($179-$206)

• Rear Mezzanine Center (Rows A-C): $206 seats offer near-perfect center alignment. Row A has the steepest rake for unobstructed views.
• Rear Mezzanine 1 Row B: $192 - Front of rear section with excellent head-on perspective.
• Orchestra N-Q: $213-220 gets you mid-rear orchestra. Rows Q-S are under the mezzanine overhang but sound is superb here.

🎭 Higher Tier Options ($271-$358)

• Front Mezzanine (Rows A-F): $281-297. Row B center ($293) provides the classic Broadway mezzanine experience - elevated but close.
• Orchestra Center (Rows L-N): $365 premium. Perfect for seeing facial expressions while maintaining full stage perspective.
• Orchestra Sides (Rows J-M): $322-358. Right side (Stage Left view) often has better sightlines for this production's staging.

💎 Premium Picks ($418+)

• Orchestra Center (Rows A-H): $418-505. Row F center ($418) is the production's recommended "designer's pick" for ideal sightlines.
• Front Mezzanine Center Row A: $418 - Unparalleled overhead view of complex dance numbers.
• Orchestra AA: $290-297. First row has unique energy but requires slight head tilt - best for immersive experiences.

🔍 View Comparison

• Rear Mezzanine vs Orchestra: Mezzanine excels for viewing intricate choreography patterns, while orchestra delivers vocal nuance.
• Side Views: Right side (House Left) offers better views of primary set pieces in Act 2.
• Overhang Alert: Rows M-Q orchestra and RMEZZ Rows G+ may feel slightly closed-in for tall viewers.

💡 Pro Tips

• For groups: RMEZZ Row D has 7+ seats together at $146 - rare Broadway value.
• Solo seekers: Single seats in ORCHC Row L ($365) often become available last-minute.
• Accessibility: Front Mezzanine requires stair climb - opt for orchestra if mobility is a concern.
• Student rush: Day-of tickets sometimes released for rear mezzanine at $50-75.

Why These Recommendations?

Having analyzed sightlines from every section, these picks balance cost versus experience. The Imperial's shallow orchestra means even rear seats feel close, while the mezzanine's steep rake creates excellent sightlines. For "Smash," which features elaborate ensemble numbers, the elevated perspectives often deliver more satisfying visuals than comparable-priced orchestra seats.