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 professional breakdown of the best value tickets, sweet spots, and premium options—complete with view analysis and strategic recommendations.

Best Value Tickets ($151-$176)

• Rear Mezzanine Rows B-F: Rows C-F in RMEZZ offer exceptional value at $151-$176. While these are furthest from stage, the Imperial's steep mezzanine design ensures clear sightlines. Row C ($153) is particularly strong—you'll miss some facial expressions but catch all choreography.
• View Tip: Left/Right Mezzanine seats beyond 10° angles may have minor obstructions during stage-left scenes.

Sweet Spot Seats ($179-$218)

• Rear Mezzanine Center Rows E-G: At $179-$218, these provide the ideal balance of price and view. Row E center ($206) lets you appreciate the full stage picture—crucial for "Smash"'s ensemble numbers.
• Orchestra Rear Rows Q-T: $220-$228 gets you under the mezzanine overhang. While slightly constrained vertically, you're closer to vocal performances. Best for dialogue-heavy scenes.
• Pro Tip: Mezzanine Row B center ($302) is worth the upgrade if available—the "golden seat" for this production.

Higher Tier Options ($240-$358)

• Orchestra Center Rows K-U: Rows L-Q ($263-$319) offer pristine views but at 2x mezzanine prices. Row M center ($371) provides the definitive "Smash" experience if budget allows.
• Front Mezzanine Rows A-F: $281-$358 positions you directly facing the stage elevation. Front Mezz Row B ($284) rivals orchestra views for complex dance numbers.
• Caution: Extreme sides in Front Mezzanine may miss upstage projections.

Premium & Last-Minute Seats ($375-$758)

• Orchestra Front Center (Rows A-J): $378-$505 puts you within 15 rows of the stage. Row J center ($505) is where casting directors sit—perfect for appreciating vocal technique.
• VIP Note: Front Mezzanine Box Seats (when available) offer unique angled views favored by theater connoisseurs.

Strategic Recommendations

• Group Bookings: Take advantage of the 7-ticket blocks in RMEZZ Row F ($151)—unbeatable for student groups.
• Date Night: Pair Rear Mezzanine Left Row B ($163) with pre-theatre dining—90% of the experience at 60% the cost.
• Accessibility: Orchestra Row N ($354) has the best wheelchair-accessible sightlines without obstructing others.

View Comparison Chart

The Imperial's intimate size means even "value" seats deliver strong experiences. For "Smash," I recommend prioritizing center mezzanine over side orchestra due to the production's vertical choreography. Prices typically dip 10-15% weekday performances.

Final Tip

Check for "Rear Mezzanine 1" listings—these are often mispriced and sometimes actually Front Mezzanine seats. The $192 tickets in Rear Mezzanine 1 Row B could be the stealth deal of this inventory.