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 with dramatically different experiences. Based on current ticket availability for "Smash," here's my expert breakdown of the best sections for value, premium views, and smart compromises.

Best Value Tickets ($146-$166)

• Rear Mezzanine (Rows C-F): The $146-152 tickets in Rows C-F offer surprising value. While elevated, these center-rear seats provide full stage visibility without extreme vertical angles. Row D at $151 gives the best balance - just close enough to read facial expressions.
• Sweet Spot: RMEZZ Row C at $147 (7 tickets left) - Centered view with only 3 rows ahead in the mezzanine. The $10-20 savings over closer rows buys great cocktails at intermission.
• Warning: Rows G-H start experiencing some sound attenuation in musicals - better for plays.

Sweet Spot: Good Availability & Price ($176-$206)

• Rear Mezzanine Center (Rows D-G): The $176-197 range gets you into premium mezzanine seating. REAR MEZZANINE RIGHT Row D at $176 is a standout - partial overhang protects from balcony above while maintaining direct sightlines.
• Orchestra Entry-Level: ORCHESTRA RIGHT Row N at $213 begins orchestra seating. While far back, the Imperial's shallow pitch means no head-blocking issues. Perfect for first-time Broadway attendees wanting the orchestra experience.
• Pro Tip: Rear Mezzanine Left/Right Center Rows E-G ($194-197) offer diagonal views that actually enhance dance-heavy numbers in "Smash."

Higher Tier Options ($227-$280)

• Mid-Orchestra Magic: ORCHO Rows Q-T ($227-275) deliver the classic Broadway experience. Row R at $220 (7 tickets) sits in the audio sweet spot - ideal for appreciating the show's complex vocal harmonies.
• Front Mezzanine: Front Mezzanine Right/Left Row F ($281) provides the most intimate mezzanine experience. You'll catch every costume detail while maintaining a full-stage perspective crucial for ensemble numbers.
• View Tradeoff: ORCHESTRA LEFT Row K ($228) seems close but sits behind the proscenium arch - partial side view restrictions apply.

Premium & Last-Minute Splurges ($284-$430+)

• Center Orchestra Gold: Rows A-J ($297-505) are investor favorites for good reason. ORCH CENTER Row P at $430 delivers perfect vocal balance - crucial for a show about musical theater.
• Front Mezzanine Boxes: FMEZC Row A ($418) offers private box ambiance with modern comfort. The slight angle creates dynamic staging perspectives.
• VIP Alert: ORCHC Row J at $505 (4 left) puts you where Broadway critics sit - dead center, 12 rows back. The $150 premium over Row P buys definitive bragging rights.

Seating Chart Insights

• Orchestra Depth: Rows A-J (Premium), K-T (Mid), U-Z (Rear). The Imperial's 34 orchestra rows make row letters crucial - "T" is much farther back than newer theaters.
• Mezzanine Levels: Front Mezzanine (Rows A-F), Rear Mezzanine (Rows A-H). The 16-foot ceiling drop between sections creates distinct viewing experiences.
• Sightline Quirks: Box seats (numbered sections) have partial obstructions from railings - only recommended for superfans wanting vintage ambiance.

Final Recommendations

• Budget-Conscious: RMEZZ Row C ($147) - Best value in the house
• First-Timers: ORCHESTRA RIGHT Row N ($213) - Authentic orchestra experience
• Theater Enthusiasts: REAR MEZZANINE CENTER Row G ($217) - Perfect balance of view and acoustics
• Special Occasion: ORCH CENTER Row J ($505) - The critic's choice for good reason
• Last-Minute: Watch for ORCHC Row T drops below $280 as showdate approaches

Remember, the Imperial's intimate size means there are no truly bad seats - just different perspectives on this legendary stage. For "Smash," prioritize center-left seating to catch all the backstage drama scenes.