Funny Girl is a classic musical that tells the story of legendary performer Fanny Brice. Having opened on Broadway in 1964, this musical starring Barbra Streisand is considered one of the greats. In 2022, Funny Girl is back on Broadway with Beanie Feldstein in the lead role. With all the buzz around this revival, tickets are in high demand. If you plan to see Funny Girl during its limited run at the August Wilson Theatre, you’ll want to secure the best seats in the house. So which seats offer the optimal experience for Funny Girl on Broadway?
Orchestra vs Mezzanine vs Balcony
The August Wilson Theatre has three seating levels: orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony. The orchestra section is closest to the stage on the ground level. The mezzanine is elevated above the orchestra with a view overlooking the stage. The balcony is the highest seating level furthest from the stage.
When choosing between orchestra, mezzanine, or balcony, there are pros and cons to consider for each section. The orchestra offers an up close perspective ideal for seeing facial expressions. However, the mezzanine allows you to see the stunning stage production from above. The balcony gives you an affordable ticket price, though the distance from the stage may make it harder to connect with the intimate moments.
Ultimately, the orchestra section is often regarded as the best place to see Funny Girl. Being closer to the action helps you feel immersed in this powerful musical. But the mezzanine still provides strong visibility at a slightly lower price point.
Center Orchestra vs Side Orchestra
Once you’ve decided on orchestra seating, your next choice is between the center orchestra or side orchestra sections. The center orchestra seats are in the middle rows directly facing the stage. The side orchestra seats angle off to the left or right.
The center orchestra is prized for its straight-on perspective. You’ll feel like you’re right in the midst of the performance. However, the side orchestra can provide a more intimate experience. Seeing the actors’ faces in profile allows you to see subtle expressions. The side orchestra also brings you closer to the edge of the stage.
At the August Wilson Theatre, the side orchestra sections 101-104 and 111-114 are excellent alternatives if the center orchestra is sold out. You’ll still get reasonable proximity to the stage while saving money.
Avoid the Rear Orchestra
One tip when choosing orchestra seats is to avoid the farthest rear rows under the mezzanine overhang. Rows O through S lose the intimacy of being close to the stage. For Funny Girl, try to get seats within the first 10 rows (A through K) if possible.
Mezzanine Front vs Rear
The mezzanine at the August Wilson Theatre contains 20 rows divided into front, center, and rear sections. Front mezzanine offers a nice balance of clear sight lines and affordability. But how close is it advisable to sit in the mezzanine?
The front mezzanine rows A through D allow you to see facial expressions and feel a connection to the actors. The middle rows E through L are also fine. But the rearmost rows M through T under the balcony overhang should be avoided. Sound and lighting quality start to deteriorate the further back you sit in the mezzanine.
Thus, when selecting the mezzanine level, target the front and middle sections. Rows A through L provide good elevation without being too far removed from the performers.
Be Wary of Obstructed View Mezzanine Seats
One obstacle in the mezzanine level is pillars that can block your view in certain aisle seats and partial view rows. Check the August Wilson Theatre seating chart carefully to avoid obstructed view mezzanine tickets. Stick to the center sections or confirm the specific seat has no impairment.
Balcony Views on a Budget
Sitting in the balcony allows you to see Funny Girl for the lowest price. But there are significant disadvantages with balcony seating. The steep vertical angle makes it harder to connect with the intimacy of the show. Also, the balcony railing and lighting rig can obstruct sight lines.
However, if your priority is getting a cheap seat, the August Wilson Theatre balcony isn’t a bad option. The front balcony rows A through F are your best bet. Avoid the corners and back rows under the overhang. For a clear sight line, aim for the center balcony sections 201-207.
Just keep in mind the balcony perspective is far from the orchestra experience. But the balcony does let you enjoy stellar Broadway production values from above on a budget.
Check for Discounted Rear Mezzanine and Balcony Tickets
One balcony and mezzanine ticket tip is to look for discounted seats in the rear sections. While the front rows are prized, not all rear mezzanine and balcony seats have obstructed views. You can sometimes get bargain deals on tickets in the very back rows while still seeing the stage.
Where to Sit by Scene
Beyond the seating levels, it helps to know where the major scenes of Funny Girl take place on the August Wilson Theatre stage:
| Scene | Stage Position |
|---|---|
| Fanny’s Dressing Room | Stage left |
| Keeney’s Theater | Stage right |
| Ziegfeld Follies | Center stage |
| Nick’s Poker Game | Center stage |
| Train to Chicago | Diagonally from stage left to right |
With this blocking in mind, your ideal seat location may vary. For example, sitting on stage left gives you a front row perspective on Fanny in her dressing room. A stage right seat enhances the view during the colorful Keeney’s Theater scenes. Center orchestra seats get you closest to the Follies numbers and poker games.
Best Seats for Key Musical Numbers
Certain songs and dances in Funny Girl shine brighter from specific parts of the theater. Here are recommendations for the best seats to see key musical numbers:
“I’m the Greatest Star” – Center Orchestra
Fanny sings this triumphant number as she takes the stage for the first time. A center orchestra seat gives you the perfect angle as Fanny steps into the spotlight.
“His Love Makes Me Beautiful” – Stage Right Orchestra
The romantic ballad between Fanny and Nick has them positioned stage right, so a seat on this side allows you to see their expressions up close.
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” – Center Mezzanine
When Fanny defiantly belts this anthem, a center mezzanine perch lets you take in the full stage picture.
Ziegfeld Follies Production Numbers – Front Orchestra
The stunning tap dance sequences are best viewed from the front and center of the orchestra section.
Accessibility Considerations
The August Wilson Theatre has accessible seating for wheelchair users and their companions. These prime orchestra level seats are available both on the aisle and in the center orchestra.
If you need an assisted listening device, infrared headsets are available upon request. The theater also offers audio description services periodically for visually impaired guests. Contact the box office ahead of time for details on arranging these services.
Pro Tips
Beyond picking the perfect seat location, here are some extra tips for an optimal Funny Girl experience:
– Arrive early to admire the architecture of the gorgeous August Wilson Theatre, opened in 1925.
– Bring binoculars if sitting farther back in the mezzanine or balcony to see facial expressions.
– Download the soundtrack and get familiar with the songs beforehand so you can sing along.
– Read up on the real history of Fanny Brice to appreciate this iconic figure.
– Dress to impress! Wear your finest theater attire and join in the opening night excitement.
– Sit through the curtain call to applaud the talented cast and soak up the spectacle.
Conclusion
Landing the best seats for Funny Girl on Broadway requires weighing factors like your budget, proximity to the stage, and viewing angle. The center orchestra section offers a prime perspective of this spectacular revival. Front mezzanine seats also let you soak up the performance at a lower price. And the balcony provides budget-friendly seating, though the distance is a drawback. Avoid the extreme sides, rear corners, and any obstructed view seats. To get the most out of this rare chance to see Funny Girl, target the front and center of the orchestra or mezzanine sections for the optimal experience. With an attentive eye on seating location, you’re sure to fall in love with this hilarious and heartwarming musical all over again.
