Decide on the dates that you will be in New York and on the dates that you will actually be able to devote a few hours to a show. Bear in mind that discount tickets for a larger number of shows are typically easier to get during Broadway’s slow period in January, February, September and October.
Visit Playbill, Theatermania and Broadwaybox.com to obtain discount codes that can then be used to purchase from outlets such as Telecharge or Ticketmaster. You can also buy directly from the theater box office and save the extra fees.
Join the Theater Development Fund for an annual fee of $27.50. The TDF allows memberships for the following: student, teacher, union member, senior citizen, civil service employee, nonprofit or performing arts organization employee, member of the armed forces, or clergy and offers advance show tickets for some shows for as little as $35. If you qualify for membership the discount for one ticket more than makes up for the membership cost.
Go to the theater box office early, before it opens and try to score with “Rush Tickets” or lotteries. These are a limited number of tickets that sell for usually as low as $20 on the day of the show. There is also a specific kind of Rush ticket called a "Student Rush" ticket which is only for, as the name implies, students. Be aware that these tickets do go fast and for the hottest shows lines often form the night before.
See a show without the hassle of having a seat at all. If there is a particular show that you’re dying to see and you don’t mind standing through the whole performance then you can check the theater box office for “Standing Room Only” tickets. These can usually be had for $20 to $30.
Look for the red and white TKS Booth at one of two locations, Times Square and the South Street Seaport. These booths are operated by the Theater Development Fund and offer tickets at half-price on the day of the show. Shows and availability vary and may be limited so you’ll have to check the electronic board at the booth to see what’s available on that day. The lines typically are shorter at the South Street Seaport location.