Real Time with Bill Maher is a popular late night talk show hosted by comedian and political commentator Bill Maher. The show features Maher discussing and satirizing the news and interviewing guests from entertainment, politics, and culture. Real Time airs weekly on Friday nights on HBO and has gained a dedicated following since debuting in 2003. One of the most common questions fans ask is what is the cost of tickets to attend a live taping of Real Time in Los Angeles? There are a few key factors that determine Real Time ticket prices.
Ticket Prices
The face value price of tickets to attend a taping of Real Time with Bill Maher ranges from free to around $175 per ticket depending on the section. However, the high demand for tickets means that resale prices can be much higher, sometimes over $1000 per ticket on sites like StubHub. Here is an overview of the pricing and process to get Real Time tickets:
Through the HBO Ticket Lottery
HBO provides a limited number of free tickets to fans through an online ticket lottery system. Fans can enter the lottery on the HBO website when free tickets are being offered, typically a few weeks before a show taping date. Winners are randomly selected and notified by email. The number of free tickets given away varies but is extremely limited, so the odds of winning are low. But entering is free and gives fans a chance at getting into the show.
Purchasing Tickets Directly from HBO
When lottery tickets are not available, HBO sells tickets directly on its website. These tickets range in price:
– Balcony: $0 (free)
– Back Orchestra: $50
– Front Orchestra: $175
Tickets go on sale about 3-4 weeks before taping and sell out extremely quickly, usually in under an hour. So fans need to be ready and on the site right when tickets go live to have a chance at purchasing them.
Purchasing Resale Tickets
Given how fast HBO tickets sell out, the most reliable way to get Real Time seats is often through resale sites like StubHub. Here are typical resale prices:
– Balcony: $100+
– Back Orchestra: $300-$500
– Front Orchestra: $600-$1000+
As you can see, resale prices are many times the face value price of HBO tickets. Prices fluctuate depending on the guest lineup and demand. Big name guests like former president Obama can drive resale prices into the thousands.
Purchasing Process
Here are the step-by-step instructions for getting Real Time tickets through both HBO and resale sites:
HBO Tickets
1. Check the HBO website weekly to look for free ticket lottery announcements typically a few weeks before a show taping.
2. When a lottery is announced, submit an entry within the lottery timeframe. Winners are selected randomly.
3. If the lottery is not available, check the HBO tickets page for the upcoming show date around 3-4 weeks before taping.
4. Once tickets go on sale, be on the site right at the listed start time to search for seats and purchase. Transactions are typically through Ticketmaster.
5. Enter your information and payment details quickly as tickets sell out in seconds/minutes.
Resale Tickets
1. Search sites like StubHub for the Real Time show date you want to attend 2-4 weeks before taping.
2. Review ticket listings and current prices to get a sense of the market. Prices will be highest closer to the show date.
3. Pick your desired section and price range then filter search results accordingly.
4. Select your tickets and enter your purchasing information. Many resale sites offer electronic ticket delivery.
5. Be aware of the seller rating. Only purchase from highly rated sellers to avoid scams.
6. Confirm your purchase details and payment method. Many sites offer buyer guarantees in case of any ticket issues.
Tips for Getting Real Time Tickets
Because Real Time tickets are so limited and expensive on the secondary market, here are some top tips for scoring seats:
– Enter every HBO ticket lottery. It’s free so there’s no reason not to try.
– If purchasing through HBO, set up an account ahead of time and save your payment information to check out faster.
– Be ready on the HBO website precisely at the ticket sale start time and refresh frequently. Newly released seats appear randomly.
– For resale tickets, aim to buy 1-2 months in advance when there is more inventory before prices surge close to taping dates.
– Don’t rule out single seats. Purchasing one ticket can greatly expand your options. You’re likely to meet other fans at the show.
– Check back often for last minute ticket drops as some buyers may resell.
– Consider attending a taping on a Friday when a guest you’re excited about is appearing even if it requires paying higher resale prices. The experience may be worth it!
What To Expect If You Get Real Time Tickets
If you’re lucky enough to score coveted Real Time seats, here’s a rundown of what you can expect on show night:
Waiting in Line
Plan to arrive at least 1-2 hours before the scheduled taping time to wait in line outside the studio. Earlier arrival and check-in is better to get a better seat number. Bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment while you wait.
Security and Seating
Your bags will be checked and phones secured prior to the taping. You will receive a seat number which is first come, first served. Orchestra ticket holders get seated first, then balcony. Seats fill up quickly.
The Taping
The taping itself lasts around an hour. After a warm-up comedian gets the audience excited, Bill Maher does his monologue and interviews two to three guests. There is a short intermission halfway through. Enjoy the rare chance to see the show produced live!
Meeting Bill Maher
There is a possibility of meeting Bill after the show as he sometimes talks to fans near the studio exit, though it is not guaranteed. Be respectful if you get the opportunity to interact with him or any guests up close after the taping finishes.
Getting into see Real Time with Bill Maher is a bucket list dream for many fans. With extremely limited seating and huge demand, scoring tickets requires persistence, preparation, flexibility, and a bit of luck. But the payoff of experiencing this iconic show in person makes it well worth the effort for devoted followers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about attending Real Time with Bill Maher:
Where is Real Time taped?
Real Time is taped at CBS Television City in Los Angeles, California at 7800 Beverly Blvd.
When should I start trying to get tickets?
Start checking for HBO ticket lottery announcements and resale listings around 3-4 weeks before the show date you want to attend. The earlier you search, the better selection and prices you will find.
How early should I arrive before the show?
Arrive at least 1-2 hours beforehand, but waiting in line as early as possible, even 5+ hours early, will increase your chances of getting a better seat number closer to the stage since seating is first come, first served.
Can I take pictures or videos during the taping?
No. All phones and devices are secured before the taping begins. Talk to staff before pulling out any devices once seated inside.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, you must be at least 18 years old to be in the audience due to mature show content. Be prepared to show ID.
Can I meet Bill Maher or get autographs after the show?
Only occasionally. Bill sometimes exits near the audience area after taping but there are no guarantees. Be polite if you encounter him or any guests. Do not hound them for pictures or autographs.
Are all shows live or are some pre-taped?
Nearly all shows are taped live on Friday nights. On rare occasions a show may be pre-taped earlier in the week if the schedule requires it. Check the HBO site for latest taping dates.
Can I choose my exact seat?
No, HBO assigns seat numbers in order of arrival time spent waiting in line outside the studio. Orchestra ticket holders get seated first. You cannot pick your exact seat location.
Is there an age limit or dress code?
There is an 18+ age limit to attend tapings. There is no formal dress code but avoid wearing ripped, stained, or overly revealing clothing. Business casual attire is recommended.
Score Real Time with Bill Maher Tickets
Scoring tickets to see Bill Maher’s iconic late night talk show Real Time filmed live is a dream for many comedy and political enthusiasts. But between the incredibly limited ticket availability and sky-high resale prices, getting into a taping takes determination, preparation and flexibility. Keep entering the HBO ticket lotteries, be ready to pounce on release dates, and don’t rule out paying higher secondary market prices for the chance to see Real Time magic happen right before your eyes. The experience of seeing Bill Maher’s fiery monologues and compelling conversations with some of the most relevant and influential figures of our time is truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity well worth the effort of procuring those coveted seats.
