Comparing Broadway, Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway Theatres

LtCol Jennifer Grieves served the nation as a military officer, flying helicopters and assuming operational responsibilities while a member of the US Marine Corps. In her leisure time, one of Jennifer Grieves’ favorite pastimes is to attend Broadway theatre shows.

Broadway Street in New York City featured productions performed in theatre houses from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. The theatre district was also known as The Great White Way, a name which alluded to the bright lights that framed titles and posters on theatre marquees.

Over time, things have changed. Today, more than 40 establishments in the theatre district are considered Broadway theatres although only a few have actual Broadway addresses. The three different types of Broadway venues are Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off-Broadway.

A Broadway theatre has at least 500 seats and may or may not reside along Broadway Street. It will, however, be located in the Theatre District. Productions in these theaters must also contract with union labor for the show, including actors, musicians, and choreographers. Broadway theatre tickets are expensive because the cost to stage a production is high.

An Off-Broadway theatre located in New York City holds an audience of 99 to 499. Off-Broadway theatres became the alternative to pricier Broadway productions starting in the 1950s. An Off-Off-Broadway theatre has fewer than 99 seats. Any space can become an Off-Off-Broadway venue, such as bars, restaurants, and coffee shops.