5 Frequently Asked Questions About Broadway Musicals

1/ Can you enjoy a musical in New York if you don’t speak English?

• Absolutely. Broadway musicals are not stuffy theater productions—they’re vibrant spectacles filled with stunning musical numbers, lavish sets, brilliant costumes, and powerful music. Think big American entertainment, not a solo actor reciting classical drama on a bare stage.
• More importantly, you already know the stories. The Lion King on Broadway is based on the Disney animated film. Same with Aladdin on Broadway—the classic tale of the magic lamp. You don’t need to catch every word; the action and music on stage tell the story for you.

2/ Are children allowed in Broadway theaters?

• The official minimum age is 4 years old, as set by Broadway theaters.
• That said, this is a bare minimum. Bring your children when they’re old enough to actually enjoy and follow the show.
• Choose stories that appeal to them—The Lion King and Aladdin are ideal choices. The Lion King, for example, is recommended for children ages 6 and up.

3/ Can you take photos or videos during the show?

• No. Photography and video recording are not permitted during performances, whether with a camera or phone. The show is meant for your eyes and your memories alone.
• Broadway theaters enforce this strictly—violations are treated as copyright infringement. It’s best to respect the rule. However, you’re welcome to take souvenir photos before and after the show.

4/ What should you wear to a musical?

• Unlike opera, there’s no formal dress code for musicals. Wear whatever you like, as long as it’s decent—no swimwear or beachwear, obviously.
• One tip: Broadway theaters keep the air conditioning very cold. Bring a light sweater or jacket just in case.

5/ Should you book tickets in advance for a Broadway musical?

• You’re not alone in wanting to see a Broadway show. Visitors from around the world dream of experiencing an American musical on Broadway. To put it in perspective: according to the Broadway League, Broadway musicals attracted nearly 13.8 million people during the 2017/2018 season, including 7.6 million international visitors. That’s a record.
• If you want to see a major musical like The Lion King, Aladdin, Chicago, Wicked, or MJ The Musical, book your tickets well in advance. You won’t find tickets at the box office—these shows sell out every day because demand is so high.
• To book tickets, visit our Broadway musicals section. You’ll find tickets for the most popular shows. Reservations are available in euros, and with limited availability, you’ll get good seats. Have questions? Contact us through our contact form.