Westchester Broadway Theater – Broadway Feel for Fewer Dollars in Elmsford, New York

You’ve wanted to see a Broadway musical since you first heard the soundtrack for Phantom of the Opera in high school, but the economy has sapped your non-essentials budget and made it impossible for you and your best friend/significant other/favorite aunt to head downtown to Manhattan to see the latest star-studded cast. Parking (or train/cab fare), dinner, tickets- all can be cost prohibitive. Yes, you can find deals, but they’re usually few and far between. Why wait?

Enter The Westchester Broadway Theater. Situated in Elmsford, New York, in the middle of an executive business park, the Westchester Broadway Theater is a wonderful alternative to the Theater district. Easily accessible via the Sprain Brook or Saw Mill River Parkways, shows change every few weeks, but the theater also hosts special events such as Doo-wop and Comedy Nights, and seasonal celebrations. The actors and actresses may not be as well known as those headlining downtown, but they’re very accomplished and professional. Last year, at a performance of Singin’ in the Rain, my family and I were blown away by the acrobatic ability of the actor playing the role of Cosmo Brown and left the theater humming the songs.

Depending on the show, the WBT is suitable for younger theater goers, although the primary audience is usually composed of a 55+ crowd. There are specialty VIP boxes available for larger parties, and of course, the theater is available for rental for private parties. The WBT also provides opportunities for local schools to be exposed to musical theater with such performances as the currently running Big River (Feb 2012). Parking is plentiful and free, another plus for those who are loathe to travel over an hour by car each way through some of the worst traffic in the country.

The Westchester Broadway Theater is a great example of where “dinner and a show” mix well. While the tables and chairs are crammed in to make the most of the space, there’s definitely more room than the stereotypical Broadway theater seat. With three courses, soft drinks and coffee included and appetizers, specialty beverages, and desserts offered for nominal fees, the meal is on par with good catering hall food, with more options for entrees. All food is served before the performance begins, so that there’s no chance of “clinking” during an emotionally moving song or impassioned speech. With ticket prices for a weekend matinee costing around $80, that’s a great deal. For more information on upcoming shows and ticket prices, click here.


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