Traveling to NYC next week and curious if theaters will give you playbills to shows that you’re not seeing or allow you to buy them? I’m a collector and have seen several shows on tour but have not gotten official playbills for them. Thanks in advance for the help!
Last month I went to pick my tickets at the box office of the Palace Theatre (SpongeBob Squarepants) and right before me, 2 teens were in line. When it was their turn, they asked the man in the Box Office if he had any extra playbills and the man gave them 2 playbills. This was a Saturday morning 3 hours before the first show. I suppose it depends on the theatre / show as I have read some comments of theaters where they do not give playbills unless you see the show.
Bull crap. Playbills are free and you can ask anyone at the box office window or knock on the stage door and simply ask for one.
If that doesn’t work, simply visit ANY theatre after a performance and help yourself to a mint condition Playbill from the stack located on the aisle of the last row of the Orchestra seats as that’s where the ushers keep them.
When I was at Broadway flea, I was by the broadhurst and went in and asked for a playbill, the guy at the box office went to get one from behind the stage door I believe and I was in and out within 5 minutes.
Again, Playbills are free. Having someone working at the theatre go and get you one depends on the mood of who you’re asking. Simple as that.
Try the box office first. If they decline just simply walk outside and knock on the stage door and ask whoever opens the door. They most likely will have a Playbill within a few feet from where they’re standing.
It’s not rocket science, kids. You’re not asking them to have the entire cast sign it with a personal inscription and lipstick kiss marks from every female cast member.
I've never had an issue asking for playbills from any theater. And now when I see shows I grab a few extra and typically give them out since I always find someone outside or on one of the boards that wants one. Ushers and people at the BO are always fine with giving them away in my experience
joined:2/12/08
joined:
2/12/08
Posted: 12/2/17 at 12:55pm