National Theatre - DC | "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations" Seating Guide

Expert Recommendations for the Best Views & Value

As a historic Broadway-style theater, the National Theatre offers three main seating levels: Orchestra (ground floor), Mezzanine (first balcony), and Balcony (upper level). Here's my breakdown of the best options for this Motown musical based on current availability and pricing.

Best Value Tickets (Under $120)

• Balcony Rows F-J ($112-$120): Surprisingly good sightlines for the price. Row F in center Balcony (Section BALC) at $112 offers the best value - you'll see all choreography clearly though facial details will be softer.
• Side Balcony (LBALC/RBALC Rows E-G): Slight side angle but excellent sound. LBALC Row F at $113 is a steal with only minimal stage obstruction.

Sweet Spot (Good Availability & Price)

• Front Balcony Rows C-E ($178-$199): BALC Row C provides a perfect balance - close enough to appreciate costumes but avoids orchestra premium pricing. The $182 tickets in center Balcony Row C are particularly strong.
• Mezzanine Sides (LMEZZ/RMEZZ Rows G-L): $160-$214 range. LMEZZ Row L at $160 gives a wonderful overhead view of the Temptations' formations.

Higher Tier Options (Not the best deals)

• Rear Orchestra ($217-$253): ORCH rows W-T put you level with the stage but far back. Only worth it if you prefer being on ground level - the Mezzanine often has better views at these distances.
• Front Balcony Aisle Seats: LBALC/RBALC Rows A-B ($182-$207) have quick access but limited view improvements over rows just behind them.

Premium or Last-Minute Splurges

• Center Orchestra Front ($329-$604): ORCH rows A-J put you in the heart of the action. Row B at $329 is reasonable for this caliber show, while Row A at $402 is for true fans wanting to see every sweat detail.
• Box Seats: Occasionally released last-minute. Unique angled view right beside stage - perfect for appreciating the Temptations' legendary footwork.

View Differences to Note

• Balcony vs Mezzanine: Mezzanine (sections MEZZ/LMEZZ/RMEZZ) provides a more "complete" view of formations than Balcony, but at 1.5-2x the price for comparable rows.
• Side Sections: LBALC/RBALC and LORCH/RORCH have minor stage obstructions but often better sound. Ideal if you prioritize music over full staging views.
• Row Letters: At National Theatre, A is always front, progressing backward alphabetically. Gaps in letter sequences indicate splits between price tiers.

Final Recommendation

For most attendees, the center Balcony Rows C-F ($112-$188) offer the perfect compromise of price and view for this dance-heavy show. If budget allows, spring for Mezzanine Rows G-L ($160-$214) - the elevated perspective really showcases the Temptations' legendary choreography.

Pro Tips

• The National's Balcony is steeper than modern theaters - avoid front Balcony if heights bother you
• Orchestra seats beyond Row T lose significant view of upstage performances
• Mezzanine center sections (MEZZ) often sell first - side Mezzanine (LMEZZ/RMEZZ) provides 90% of the experience at 70% of the price