Imperial Theatre - "Smash" Broadway Show Seating Guide & Best Ticket Values

Expert Recommendations for the Best Views at Every Price Point

As a historic Broadway venue with 1,443 seats, the Imperial Theatre offers diverse seating options for "Smash." Below is my curated guide to help you find the perfect balance of view quality and price.

🎯 Best Value Tickets (Under $160)

• Rear Mezzanine (Rows C-F): $146-$152 - Excellent mid-range option. Rows C-D provide surprisingly clear stage views despite being rear mezzanine. The slight angle in RMEZZ sections actually improves sightlines to the proscenium.
• Sweet Spot: Row D at $146 offers the best price-to-view ratio in the house. You'll miss some facial expressions but catch all choreography.

✨ Sweet Spot Seating (Good Availability & Price)

• Rear Mezzanine Center (Rows E-G): $162-$179 - Center alignment means no obstructed views. Row G has extra legroom.
• Rear Mezzanine Side (Rows B-D): $163-$177 - Side sections actually provide better views of stage depth for this production. Right side (Section 3) has slightly better aisle access.

🎭 Higher Tier Options (Premium Views)

• Orchestra Center (Rows K-U): $254-$358 - The magic happens between rows L-T. Rows N-P ($354-$365) are the production team's recommended "golden zone" for experiencing the full stage picture.
• Front Mezzanine (Rows A-F): $273-$345 - For dance-heavy numbers, the front mezzanine provides the best overall perspective. Section FMEZC Row D at $288 is a standout.

💎 Premium & Last-Minute Seats

• Orchestra Front Center (Rows A-J): $375-$758 - Rows E-F ($418) offer once-in-a-lifetime proximity to the performers. The $505 seats in Row J include VIP lounge access.
• Box Seats: Occasionally released last-minute. While partially obstructed, they provide unique angled views favored by theater connoisseurs.

🔍 View Comparison

• Orchestra vs Mezzanine: Orchestra seats below row M can miss some ceiling effects, while mezzanine loses subtle facial acting. For "Smash," the mezzanine actually benefits many production numbers.
• Side Sections: Right orchestra (looking at stage) has better views of the primary set piece. Left orchestra sees more actor entrances.

💡 Pro Tips

• The Imperial's mezzanine overhang begins at row L - avoid rows AA-K if you dislike feeling "under" the balcony.
• Pair tickets in Rear Mezzanine Row B ($278) with a $30 standing-room cocktail table for a budget VIP experience.
• Wednesday matinees often have the best same-day seat releases at the box office.

📊 Price Trends

Current average ticket price: $287. Prices typically drop 10-15% 48 hours before performances, except for Saturday nights. The $146 RMEZZ tickets are unusually low - likely a limited promotion.