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

Expert Recommendations for the Best Views at Every Price Point

As a historic Broadway theater with 1,443 seats, the Imperial Theatre offers diverse seating options with varying sightlines. Based on current availability for "Smash," here's my expert breakdown of the best sections for value, premium experiences, and everything in between.

Best Value Tickets ($146-$170)

• Rear Mezzanine Rows E-F (RMEZZ): At $146-$147, these offer solid overhead views of the full stage. Slight angle but no obstructions.
• Rear Mezzanine Rows D-H: Priced $151-$170, these move you 1-3 rows closer while maintaining the same perspective.

Pro Tip: Rows E-F provide the best price-to-view ratio in the house for budget-conscious buyers.

Sweet Spot Seating ($171-$240)

• Rear Mezzanine Center Rows A-D: ($190-$284) - Direct center views minimize the balcony overhang effect.
• Orchestra Rows N-T (Sides): ($213-$240) - Side orchestra seats bring you closer while maintaining full stage visibility.

👀 View Difference: Rear Mezzanine Center vs Sides

• Center seats (5-10° viewing angle) show perfect stage composition
• Side seats (15-25° angle) offer more actor facial visibility but slightly compressed perspective

Premium Orchestra Seating ($254-$365)

• Center Orchestra Rows J-Q: ($358-$365) - The "golden zone" for Broadway shows with ideal sightlines and acoustics.
• Front Mezzanine Rows A-C: ($281-$339) - Elevated but closer than rear mezzanine with excellent depth perception.

Note: Rows K-M in orchestra center (priced $358-$365) are where most Broadway critics sit for optimal experience.

Last-Minute & VIP Options ($418-$758)

• Orchestra Center Rows H-J: ($418-$505) - Close enough to see facial expressions clearly.
• Front Row Center Mezzanine: ($418) - Unobstructed downward sightlines perfect for choreography appreciation.
• Premium Orchestra Row L: ($758) - For those wanting absolute best seats in the house.

Key Viewing Considerations

• Overhang Alert: Rear Mezzanine Rows A-C may have slight balcony overhang - avoid if you're very tall.
• Sound Dynamics: Mezzanine center provides best acoustic balance for musical numbers.
• Stage Sightlines: Orchestra rows N-Q center offer perfect head-on perspective of all stage levels.

My Top 3 Picks for "Smash"

1. Rear Mezzanine Center Row B ($302): Best mid-price seats with perfect center alignment
2. Orchestra Right Row K ($254): Great value in premium orchestra section
3. Front Mezzanine Left Center Row F ($311): Ideal elevated view for appreciating the full staging

Final Recommendation

For this musical about Broadway itself, I recommend prioritizing center views (even if further back) to fully appreciate the meta-theatrical production numbers. The current best value is definitely the $146-$170 rear mezzanine tickets, while the $300-$350 range gets you into premium orchestra positions that normally cost much more.