Changing theater tickets once they have already been booked can be a tricky situation. The ability to exchange or get a refund on tickets often depends on the specific policies of the theater company or ticket reseller involved. However, there are some general guidelines that may help if you find yourself needing to alter plans for a show you’ve already purchased tickets for.
Can you exchange theater tickets for a different date/time?
Many theater companies and ticket resellers do allow exchanging tickets for a different performance of the same show. However, their specific exchange policies can vary. Some key factors that influence exchangeability of tickets include:
- How far in advance you request the exchange – Most policies require exchanges to be made at least 24-48 hours before the originally scheduled showtime.
- Availability for the new performance date/time – Exchanges are subject to availability, so if the new showtime you request is sold out, an exchange may not be possible.
- Any exchange fees – Some theater companies or resellers charge an exchange fee, often $5-10 per ticket, to change performance dates.
- Original method of purchase – Tickets purchased directly from the theater’s box office typically have more flexible exchange options than those purchased through third-party resellers.
It’s a good idea to check the specific exchange policy for the theater company or ticket reseller before purchasing tickets if you think you may need to exchange them later on. Broadway theaters in New York City tend to have very strict exchange policies, while smaller performing arts centers may be more flexible on dates.
Can you get a refund if you can’t attend the performance?
Refunds on theater tickets are less common than exchanges. Many theater companies and resellers have firm no-refund policies. However, some will offer refunds under select circumstances, such as:
- The performance is canceled – If the show is canceled entirely, most theaters will automatically refund the ticket cost.
- You purchased refundable tickets – Some theaters sell more expensive refundable ticket options.
- Extenuating circumstances – Illness, military deployment, family emergencies, etc may qualify you for a refund if you provide documentation.
As with exchanges, the closer it is to showtime, the less likely a refund will be granted. Unless you specifically purchased refundable ticket options, you generally shouldn’t count on getting your money back once you’ve booked theater tickets.
Can you resell or gift theater tickets?
If you can no longer use theater tickets you purchased, reselling or gifting them is often an option. However, the ease of doing this also varies by theater company and how the tickets were purchased.
- Paperless/mobile tickets – These may be more difficult to transfer since they are tied to your account or require ID matching the original ticket purchaser.
- Reseller restrictions – Some ticket resellers prohibit reselling tickets you purchased from them on third-party exchanges.
- Gifting fees – Transferring or gifting tickets may incur a small fee in some cases.
For high-demand shows that are likely to sell out, reselling tickets can often recoup most, if not all, of your original purchase price. Just make sure to follow all policies on ticket transfers to avoid issues. Gifting tickets to friends and family is also a nice option if you can’t attend.
Should you purchase theater ticket insurance?
Some theaters and ticket resellers give you the option to add ticket insurance to your purchase for a small fee. This insurance acts as a refund policy, allowing you to get your money back if you can’t attend for covered reasons. Reasons for refunds with ticket insurance may include:
- Illness, injury, or death
- Transportation issues
- Change in military orders
- Required work commitments
- Severe weather cancellations
Review the full details of any ticket insurance to understand what circumstances qualify for a refund. While the extra fee may seem unnecessary, it could give you peace of mind if your plans are prone to change. For very expensive tickets, insuring them can be worth the cost.
Tips for changing or getting refunds for theater tickets
If you need to alter your plans after booking theater tickets, here are some tips that may help:
- Request changes as early as possible – Don’t wait until the last minute.
- Be polite but persistent with customer service – Ask about any options or exceptions to policies.
- Get documentation for emergencies or circumstances beyond your control.
- Read all policies thoroughly before purchasing tickets so you understand your options.
- Consider purchasing refundable tickets or ticket insurance if available and you foresee potential changes in plans.
- Sell or gift tickets if you can’t attend and are past refund/exchange deadlines.
Sample theater ticket policies
To illustrate how exchange and refund policies can vary between theaters, here are some examples from major companies:
Broadway Theater Tickets in New York City
- Exchanges permitted up to 2 hours prior to performance for a fee.
- No refunds except in the event of show cancellation.
- Reselling of tickets is prohibited.
Local Community Theater Company
- Free exchanges permitted up to 24 hours before showtime based on availability.
- Refunds given up to 7 days prior to performance, minus a $5 processing fee.
- Reselling of tickets allowed, must notify box office to transfer tickets.
National Theater Chain
- Exchanges permitted for a $10 fee until showtime based on availability.
- No refunds once tickets purchased.
- Ticket insurance available for $5 per ticket, allows refunds for covered circumstances.
As you can see, Broadway theaters tend to have the most restrictive policies, while smaller local theaters are often more flexible. Reviewing the fine print before purchasing tickets for any theater is advised.
Conclusion
Changing theater tickets after purchase is possible in many cases, but subject to the individual policies of each theater company or ticket reseller. Exchanging tickets for another date is more common than getting a full refund. Reselling or gifting tickets is another option if you can no longer attend. Purchasing refundable tickets or ticket insurance can allow more flexibility as well. Understanding the specific options for altering your plans before booking tickets to a show is always wise in case your circumstances require a change.