Thursday, November 29, 2007

The Phantom Of The Opera - Applause Has Amazing Seats

the phantom of the operaThe Phantom Of The Opera is the longest running show in the history of Broadway. My partner Bill and I started our ticket company Applause Theatre Service http://www.applause-tickets.com/ at the same time this show started playing in New York over 19 years ago.

The show currently stars Jennifer Hope Wills as Christine Daae and Howard McGillin as The Phantom. Christine is the young singer in the Paris Opera House who is taken with a mysterious person who lurks in the opera house, heard but not seen at first.

The musical was based on a story from Gaston Leroux's novel and shows several accidents that have been happening to performers in the Paris Opera. Because of these unexplained occurances, the diva of the Opera House named Carlotta decides not to perform. The young girl with a beautiful voice, Christine Daae takes her place and with great success.

At Christine's opening night she meets her childhood friend Raoul and while alone in her dressing room the same night, she meets the Phantom as well. He was the one who taught her to sing so beautifully. The Phantom takes Christine to his secluded hideaway beneath the Opera House and tells her how much he loves her. She then learns his horrible secret and flees to the roof of the Opera House where both Raoul and The Phantom fight for Christine's love.

After 19 years, this show still pleases everyone we sell tickets to. If you want amazing seats at amazing prices ask for the special insider's discount pricing on weekday's. You get great seats and save a bundle of money too.

Call Applause Theatre Service at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930 or buy tickets at our award winning web site http://www.applause-tickets.com/ . Remember our motto, Applause has "real people you can trust, helping you get the best seats to the best shows at the best prices". Satisfaction guaranteed.

Rich Gladstone

Show Info | Buy Tickets

The Farnsworth Invention on Broadway-Applause Has Amazing Seats

If you want to see a show that might win the Tony Award for Best Play in 2008, you need to get yourself a ticket to see The Farnsworth Invention in New York City. The show stars Hank Azaria and Jimmi Simpson and is directed by Des McAnuff.

The year is 1929 and 2 brilliant men spend years competing against one another trying to invent the device we now call "television". Although the men work a great distance from one another, thousands of miles away in fact, they know that each of them can't take a moment's rest or the other one will create the invention first.

On one hand we have David Sarnoff, the top corporate man at RCA and the other man is Philo Farnsworth, a farm boy from Idaho who was a genius in science as a young boy in high school. The question is, who will be able to create the clearest picture on the telivision screen first?

The show was brilliantly researched by Aaron Sorkin, one of my favorite television writers from The West Wing as well as writing A Few Good Men for Broadway and the big screen as well. He may have taken a few liberties with his facts when writing this play but he certainly made it interesting. I normally only see non musicals once but can't wait to return to see The Farnsworth Invention again very soon.

I don't remember being on the edge of my seat in the theatre for a very long time. Decide for yourself who really was the true inventor of television? Was it Sarnoff or Farnsworth? Both of these men desperately believed in the future of this amazing technological device.

Go see this great piece of modern day theatre on Broadway now. Call Applause, The Broadway Ticket Experts today at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930 or check out the web site at www.applause-tickets.com

Rich Gladstone

Show Info | Buy Tickets

The Best Seats-The Best Broadway Shows-The Best Prices for Broadway Theatre

Need amazing tickets for Broadway Shows? Want to know where the best places are to sit in every theatre in New York City? Want to know what the shows are about? Would you like to know how to save allot when buying seats that are for a show that might have some special discounts that only a select few people know about?

Look no further. Please call Applause Theatre Service, New York's Broadway Show Expert at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930 7 days a week, all year long.

Our people are the nicest and most knowledgable in the ticket business. Our web site is very easy to navigate at www.applause-tickets.com . Check us out when you get a chance.

Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service-New York's Trusted Ticket Service

It's Thursday night, November 29,2007, and it is a little after 8pm. Every Broadway show is performing tonight live in New York City. The 19 day long Stagehands union strike is finally over. Our lives as ticket agents are getting back to normal.

Having been a licensed ticket seller for Broadway, Off Broadway and family event shows like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular for over 30 years now, I can say I have never experienced a time this long when the shows weren't playing. I walked through the theatre district tonight and saw the Broadway neon lights brighter than ever, not to mention the fantastic "electricity like feeling" throughout the cool night air.

Broadway is back. If you want to feel the excitement too, need some information or a description of a top Broadway or Off Broadway show you've been thinking about catching one day-give us a call at 212-307-7050 or at 1-800-451-9930. There's no pressure to buy anything. We'd like to get to know you, hopefully let us open an account for you, maybe put you on the mailing list so we can keep you informed on what's happening on Broadway in New York City.

If you prefer to go online, you can meet our people too. Simply go to http://www.applause-tickets.com/ .

If you need some theatre tickets in New York, we'd love to hear from you. Take care now.

Rich Gladstone
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service Inc.
311 west 43rd street, suite 601
New York, New York 10036
phone 212-307-7050
web site: http://www.applause-tickets.com/

Applause Theatre-Now is the Best Time to See a Show

Now more than ever New York theatre is alive and well. So what are you waiting for people? It’s time to see a show! What’s your pleasure? Musical comedy? We got that. Heavy drama? Check. Outstanding revivals of some of theatre’s most beloved classics? There all here. Plus if you don’t know what to see call us and we will recommend something for you. We are open seven days a week, 365 days a year. Give us a call or visit us on the web.

Applause Theatre “Real People You Can Trust”

212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930
http://www.applause-tickets.com/

Raise The Curtain-Broadway Shows are Back In Business

November 29,2007
Congratulations to both the Stagehands Union Local 1 and The League of New York Theatres and Producers on coming to a new contract agreement last night. We are happy that both sides have put the past issues behind them and that all the Broadway Shows will begin playing once again tonight, Thursday November 29,2007.

For the latest Broadway News you can use, you can have a look at www.applause-tickets.com or call Applause Theatre Service in New York City at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930. Broadway is back, bigger and brighter than ever.

Thanks to the Local Union 1 Stagehands and The League of New York Theatres and Producers. We are happy for everyone involved.

Rich Gladstone
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service Inc.
311 west 43drd street, suite 601
New York, New York 10036
phone 212-307-7050
web site: www.applause-tickets.com

Monday, November 26, 2007

Applause Theatre-Bragging Rights in New York

If you are going to shop for Broadway tickets on the internet by searching Google, Yahoo or another search engine, there is no doubt you will have hundreds of options. So what company do you choose to use?Since I work for Applause http://www.applause-tickets.com/, a theatre ticket broker that's been in the business of selling Broadway and other major events in London and nationwide for over 20 years now, I will guarantee that you almost have no choice but to take an educated guess as to who to call or email.

Being the owner of Applause and always "professionally" bragging about our great staff of Broadway ticket experts, I will stake my reputation on the fact that you will love speaking with our people. Whether you buy a ticket from us or simply get some information on shows or restaurants, I guarantee that when you hang up the phone, you will turn to someone in your home or at your office or maybe just when chatting with a friend, and you will say that you spoke with "really nice people in New York City" that care about their customers.

As for the bragging rights to who has the best ticket service in New York City, well, I've known many competitors for over 30 years of ticket selling and I'd put our people up against anyone. Not only are they great to talk with but they are helpful too. They will make every effort to secure the very best seats for the shows you want to see at the very best prices available.Come on and give us a call at 212-307-7050 or at 1-800-451-9930 7 days a week. We do want your business if you are in the need of a great service and Broadway tickets but we guarantee you'll be glad you called Applause. Satisfaction guaranteed. We love what we do and we love our customers. Shop around all you want, we only ask that you give us a try and know that you'll be glad you did.
Rich Gladstone Co-owner Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service Inc.
311 West 43rd Street, Suite 601New York, New York 10036
Phone 212-307-7050
E-mail rich@applause-tickets.com
Cell 848-565-1855

Applause Theatre-2007-2008 Season: Part 2

Well the year is almost over and you know what that means. It’s time to get ready for the second half of the Broadway season. Due to the unfortunate strike several shows that were scheduled to open this month have been pushed back. But we cannot and will not let that stop us from moving forward. The season is far from being over, and it is time to gear up for what looks to be an exciting second half. Here we go.

January 15 39 Steps, The -Fresh from a successful engagement in London, this award winning comedy from Alfred Hitchcock is being produced by The Roundabout Theatre Company. If the reviews are any indication this looks to be a strong contender in this year’s Tony race for best play.

January 17 November- Two time Tony Award winning actor Nathan Lane returns to Broadway as President Charles Smith in David Mamet’s latest play. Directed by Tony winner Joe Montello, November takes place days before the presidential election and deals with the issues of casinos, lesbians, Indians, and campaign contributions, all things that make America great right? You know with David Mamet there are sure to be plenty of surprises and controversy. I can’t wait.

January 24 Come Back, Little Sheba -S. Epatha Merkenson (Lt. Anita Van Buren on NBC’s Law and Order) reprises her acclaimed Los Angeles performance as Lola in William Ingo’s classic drama. I have been a big fan of hers for years and cannot wait to see her live on stage.


February 21 Sunday in the Park With George -I will be the first to admit that excluding Company I am not a big Sondheim fan. Yes some of his music is beautiful to listen to but on stage I just don’t feel anything. Maybe this will be the show to change my mind. Once again Roundabout Theatre has brought over another award winning production from London with its two leading stars intact. Will lighting strike twice? We will soon find out.

February 28 Passing Strange- This new musical tells the story about a young man from California and his journey from L.A. to Amsterdam, Berlin, and beyond who is searching to find his identity. This exciting new musical which features blues, rock and roll, gospel, and pop music was a big hit earlier this year at the Public Theatre. Being a musical composer myself, I am so excited to see something new and innovative, plus getting the chance to hear the type of music that I love live on a Broadway stage.

March 6 Cat on a Hot Tin Roof- You know the title. We all remember the movie starring Elizabeth Taylor as Maggie the Cat. For the first time Tennessee William’s classic will be performed with an all African American cast. Debbie Allen directs and if the casting rumors are true than this looks to be one of the biggest hits of the season. I will keep you posted.


March 9 In the Heights -After a successful run Off-Broadway, this award winning production arrives on Broadway this spring. I did not get the chance to see this show during its run, however those in my office who did see it raved about its music and originality. Set in Washington Heights over a period of three days, In the Heights tells the story of a tight-knit community at the top of the island of Manhattan. It was nominated for the 2007 Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Music and Lyrics and won the Outer Critics Circle and Lucille Lortel Awards for Outstanding Musical. This looks to be a big crowd favorite.

April 3 South Pacific -Lincoln Center revives the Tony Award winning musical from Rodgers and Hammerstein. Starring Kelli O’Hara and Paulo Szot and directed by Bartlet Sher this beloved classic is already selling well, so don’t wait to get your tickets to what is sure to be one of the highlights of the season.

April 17 Catered Affair, A-This new musical based on the motion picture is poised to be the dark horse in this year’s Tony race for Best Musical. With music by Broadway newcomer John Bucchino and book by Harvey Fierstein this enchanting story is scheduled to open this spring after its successful run at The Old Globe Theatre.

April 20 Thurgood -This one man show starring Tony Award winner Laurence Fishburne tells the triumphant story of Thurgood Marshall who rose from the backstreets of Baltimore to the Supreme Court of the United States.

Now like most years there may be a few other shows to sneak in at the last minute. That is what makes New York theatre so unpredictable. Until next time.

J.

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Radio City Christmas Spectacular 2007-Applause has Amazing Seats

Season's Greetings from Applause, The Broadway Ticket Experts. Although many Broadway shows are not playing due to a strike by the Stagehands union, we are pleased to be able to offer great seats for dozens of performances for this years Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the wonderful Rockettes.

There are usually at least 2 shows a day and up to 5 shows for many weekend performances of this exciting show. If you want great seats at amazing prices we welcome your call to Applause at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930. You can check out our web site anytime at www.applause-tickets.com .

My name is Rich Gladstone and I am one of the owners standing by to take your phone call. We guarantee you'll be happy with our service and look forward to having the opportunity to be of service to friends, family members and co workers that may be in need of a personal ticket service whnever broadway comes to mind.

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Joyous New Year.

Rich Gladstone
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service Inc.
311 west 43rd street, suite 601
New York, New York 10036

phone 212-307-7050
web site: www.applause-tickets.com

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

List of Open Broadway Shows

While the Broadway stagehands strike has temporarily put Broadway shows on hold, there are a good number of popular musicals and plays that are still up and running. Buy tickets online at www.applause-tickets.com or call us at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930.

The following is the Thanksgiving holiday week (Nov. 20-25) performance schedule for the eight Broadway shows that will be offering performances.

Cymbeline at the Vivian Beaumont Theater
Tuesday at 8 PM
Wednesday at 2 and 8 PM
Friday at 8 PM
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 3 PM

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the St. James Theatre
Friday at 11 AM, 2, 5 and 8 PM
Saturday at 11 AM, 2, 5 and 8 PM
Sunday at 11 AM and 2 and 5 PM

Mary Poppins at the New Amsterdam Theatre
Tuesday at 8 PM
Wednesday at 2 and 8PM
Friday at 2 and 8 PM
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 3 PM

Mauritius at the Biltmore Theatre
Tuesday at 8 PM
Wednesday at 2 and 8 PM
Friday at 8 PM
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 2 PM
(Mauritius will end its extended engagement Nov. 25 as scheduled.)

Pygmalion at the American Airlines Theatre
Tuesday at 7 PM
Wednesday at 2 and 7 PM
Friday at 7 PM
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 2 PM

The Ritz at Studio 54
Tuesday at 8 PM
Wednesday at 2 and 8 PM
Friday at 8 PM
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 2 PM

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Circle in the Square Theatre
Tuesday at 7 PM
Wednesday at 2 PM
Friday at 2 and 8
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 3 and 7:30

Xanadu at the Helen Hayes Theatre
Tuesday at 7 PM
Wednesday at 2 and 8 PM
Friday at 2 PM
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 3 PM

Young Frankenstein at the Hilton Theatre
Tuesday at 7 PM
Wednesday at 2 and 8 PM
Friday at 2 and 8 PM
Saturday at 2 and 8 PM
Sunday at 3 PM

Also running: The Radio City Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall and Wintuk at Madison Square Garden's WaMu Theatre.

All Off-Broadway shows will be open for business which include these popular shows:
(call Applause at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930 for tickets and availability.)

  • Altar Boyz
  • Awesome 80's Prom
  • The Fantastiks
  • Stomp
  • I Love You… Youre Perfect Now Change
  • Jump
  • Three Mo Tenors
  • Forbidden Broadway
  • Celia
  • The Gazillion Bubble Show
  • Make Me A Song
  • My First Time
  • Fuerzabruta
  • Frankenstein
  • Die Mommie Die


These Broadway shows will be dark at least through Sunday, Nov. 25.
August: Osage County at the Imperial Theatre
Avenue Q at the Golden Theatre
A Bronx Tale at the Walter Kerr Theatre
Chicago at the Ambassador Theatre
A Chorus Line at the Schoenfeld Theatre
The Color Purple at the Broadway Theatre
Curtains at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre
Cyrano de Bergerac at the Richard Rodgers Theatre
The Drowsy Chaperone at the Marquis Theatre
Duran Duran at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre
The Farnsworth Invention at the Music Box Theatre
Grease at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre
Hairspray at the Neil Simon Theatre
Is He Dead? at the Lyceum Theatre
Jersey Boys at the August Wilson Theatre
Legally Blonde at the Palace Theatre
Les Misérables at the Broadhurst Theatre
The Lion King at the Minskoff Theatre
The Little Mermaid at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre
Mamma Mia! at the Winter Garden Theatre
Monty Python's Spamalot at the Shubert Theatre
The Phantom of the Opera at the Majestic Theatre
Rent at the Nederlander Theatre
Rock 'n' Roll at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre
The Seafarer at the Booth Theatre
Spring Awakening at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre
Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre

Monday, November 19, 2007

Applause Theatre-Theatre Savings

Thanks to McDonalds, the words small, medium, and large have become a part of America’s vocabulary for the past two decades. At Applause we believe in the same formula. The good thing with ours is you don’t have to worry about counting any calories. For years one of the biggest complaints has been the rising prices of theatre tickets. Some people simply cannot afford to pay $450 to see a Broadway show. (Yes Mr. Brooks I am talking to you.)

Well guess what? Now you don’t have too. That’s right folks, it is no longer necessary to have to add another mortgage to your house or sell your first born in order to enjoy a nice evening out to the theatre for you and your family. We here at Applause want to make sure your theatre going experience is a great one.

That’s why we are proud to announce our latest offer... Applause Insider Ticket Deals. Now it is possible to see over forty shows at a fraction of the cost. That’s right folks. Now you and your family can enjoy some of New York’s finest shows at a great price. Here is a list of some of the participating shows.


Plus we have special deals available for Off-Broadway as well. Call one of our theatre experts and ask them how you can save on your next purchase. 1-800-451-9930 or 212-307-7050.

Applause Theatre-Theatre is Alive in NYC

Some of you may have heard that there is a little strike going on in our city. As of now, most of Broadway has been shut down. Sure you could spend all day being upset because your favorite show is not playing or you can regroup and realize that there is more out there than just The Lion King or Jersey Boys. Right at this very moment, there are over sixty shows playing in New York City. 60! The way I see it is if you can’t find something to do in New York City, then you aren’t looking hard enough. Better yet, call us and let us do the looking for you. That’s what we do after all. We aren’t called theatre experts for nothing. So give us a call, and let us help you make your New York experience a great one. 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930 or visit us at http://www.blogger.com/www.applause-tickets.com

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM APPLAUSE THEATER SERVICE (THE BROADWAY TICKET EXPERTS)

Monday NOVEMBER 19,2007 **IMPORTANT NEWS**
by Richard Gladstone

As the public knows, most of the Broadway Shows have been on strike since November 10, 2007 and there has been no date for "negotiations" to start up again as far as we know. We would like to say that we would like to see both the Stagehands union and the League of New York Theatres and Producers sit down and work out a solution as soon as possible. So many people are affected by this terrible problem, from the theatres, various theatre unions, right down to ticket resellers like Applause and of course, the theatre-going public that supports Broadway day in and day out. We wish both sides well and trust that a resolution between the parties can be worked out very soon. Good luck to all.

Rich Gladstone
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service Inc.
311 west 43rd street, suite 601
New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212-307-7050
www.applause-tickets.com

Friday, November 16, 2007

How to get great tickets in London

by Claudia Bombeck
Traveling to London soon? Need help in getting theatre tickets for the West End? Well you’ve come to the right place. Applause Theatre and Entertainment can be your theatre connection across the pond.

You might ask yourself why you would come to a New York ticket agent to obtain tickets for London. Our motto at Applause is “real people that you can trust”.

Let me tell you a little bit of my background. Having spent my formative years going to boarding school in England, I am half English and still carry an English passport. I landed at Applause straight out of college and have been the sales manager of London for over 12 years now. With half my family still living across the pond and having many friends who still live there, I try to get over to England at least once a year. While I am visiting, I never miss a chance to stop in London to see the latest West End smash. Some of my favorites over the last couple of years have been Billy Elliot and We Will Rock You.

Need dinner recommendations in London? Advice on navigating the streets of London? Best sightseeing spots on the Isle of England? Give me a call and I won’t lead you astray.

Through our great relationship with an excellent ticket agent in London, we have access to the best tickets available. Not only do we have several shows in inventory, including the smash hit Billy Elliot and Wicked, getting tickets for Shakespeare in Stratford is only a phone call away.

Currently Hairspray is selling out every performance with a fabulous cast that includes Michael Ball and Mel Smith. The Royal Shakespeare has a sell out season at the New London theatre with King Lear and The Seagull starring Ian Mckellan. The Christmas season sees the return of old favorites, The Snowman at the Peacock, Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker at Sadlers Wells, Cinderella at the Old Vic.

Getting theatre tickets in London cannot be easier. Giving advice on London would be my pleasure. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Claudia Bombeck - Applause Theatre London manager.
212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930.

Applause Theatre-My life outside Applause

February 4, 1992. That was the day I moved to New York. Like so many before me I moved to the big city to fulfill my dream of starring on Broadway. During my senior year of high school I auditioned and was accepted into the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. My journey was about to begin. Little did I know that that journey would take me on a rollercoaster ride that has made me into the person that I am today.

Since I was seven years old all I ever wanted to do was to live in New York and be in a Broadway show. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else with my life, and I wasn’t about to let anything or anyone convince me otherwise. Luckily I have always had the love and support of my family and friends since day one, and do to this day. Without them I know I would not be here today telling you my story.

After an intense two year program I graduated and began the next step, which is getting out there and auditioning for anything and everything. Now of course I was smart enough to know that nobody was going to offer me the lead role in the next Andrew Lloyd Webber musical or hire me to be the latest beefcake on All My Children. That’s not me and quite frankly it probably never will be. I did however have one problem. My voice. It didn’t fit my look. There I was singing Italian Arias, and “If I Were A Rich Man” from Fiddler. The problem was I was eighteen and looked it. What should I do?

Well like most actors I decided to do something else. Before I had moved here I was given the opportunity to direct a show at my local community theatre. As it turns out I liked it. A lot in fact. Plus this way I could still stay involved in the theatre until my look caught up with my voice. My friends who had come to know me strictly as a performer used to ask me if I missed acting. I would tell them, “At first I did. But if you think about it, it is my vision up there. So in a way I feel like I am up there on stage too.”

So here I am fifteen years later. Still directing and producing my shows. Last year I had the chance to produce my own work, Avarice. Unlike my other shows I have hired someone else to do the directing. I am however still wearing many hats. I am the book writer, lyricist, and composer. Plus the most exciting thing is I am getting the chance to return to the stage as a performer. So how did that happen you may ask? Did my looks finally catch up with my voice as I had always hoped and prayed that it would? Well not exactly. You see that reason that I am making a return to the stage is because I am playing myself. And I thought who could play me better than me right? I guess we will soon find out.

Throughout this incredible journey there has always been one constant. And that is my day job. Without that none of this would have been possible. For the past 4 years I have been lucky to have had the chance to work for Applause. Not only has it allowed me to pursue my dream at night but it gives me the chance to talk about the thing I love most, theatre. In my past jobs I had worked in a box office where I was pretty much limited to selling one show at a time. That is not the case with Applause.

Everyday I get the chance to talk about Broadway, Off-Broadway, Opera, Ballet and shows nation wide and abroad. Where else can you do that? I have been working in this line of work for almost ten years now and nothing gives me more pleasure than sharing my love of theatre and entertainment to new and returning clients every day. This is what we do. When people ask me what I do I don’t just say, “I’m a ticket broker” or “I sell tickets.” I really feel like we provide a great service. And I’m not afraid to say that we do it better than anybody else. So give us a call and let us show you what we can do for you. 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930 or visit us at http://www.blogger.com/www.applause-tickets.com

B'Way Expects Strike Breakthrough / Must End Soon!

by Erik Swanson
I have every reason to believe this strike will all end by the end of this weekend or Monday at the latest and that Broadway will be back up and running just in time for the upcoming Holiday weekend. They have to, THEY MUST! There is too much at stake here and too much lost already to have this utterly ridiculous strike continue.

Broken hearts for Broadway first timers both young and old, a new season of the most incredible plays in recent memory with the very real chance of not getting to see an opening night. I’m outraged by the whole situation and just hope we can all recover from this quickly and people will not be completely turned off from returning to NY soon to see a show.

Broadway when right, is an amazing experience and that’s why I’ve been in the business for some 20 plus years. Disney, who may or may not have been a big part of this whole strike in the first place, is now set to be our saviors. Stay tuned!

Wherever you bought your tickets, for strike cancelled performances, you are entitled to a refund. If you need any guidance feel free to call Applause - The Broadway experts at 212-307-7050 or 1-800-451-9930.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Applause Theatre-The Time is Now to Experience Off Broadway

When most people think of theatre in New York City the first thing that comes to mind is BROADWAY. Makes perfect sense right? Growing up as a teenager in Illinois the term "Off-Broadway" was foreign to me, as I'm sure it is to a lot of people. So what exactly does “Off-Broadway mean? Well according to Answers.com, “Off-Broadway is theatrical work, often experimental and inexpensive, presented in New York City outside the Broadway entertainment district.”

Over the years Off-Broadway has provided New Yorkers and tourists alike with some of the most innovative, not to mention unusual shows in the theatre world. From Edward Albee to Blue Man Group, from revivals of some of Shakespeare’s greatest plays to new works, Off-Broadway has it all.

Now not only have I become a big fan of Off-Broadway over the years but recently I had the chance to make my Off-Broadway debut as a performer. No I am not giving up my day job at Applause to become a big star. Well not yet anyway. I mean if someone offered you a starring role in a Broadway show would you turn it down? I think not.

As I was saying, last night I made my debut in what is already the surprise hit of the season. I am talking about JUMP! My friend who actually works on the show, called me at the last minute with an extra ticket. I thought why not. I’m not going to turn down a free ticket. Who knows it might even be good. All I can say is, “GO SEE THIS SHOW!” It was amazing. If you are looking for a show for the whole family than this is it. Heck even Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt took time out from adopting most of Africa to see the show.

So back to my debut. About halfway through the show the lights came up, and the old man in the show made his way down into the audience. All I could think was, “Please don’t let him call on me.” Well I’m guessing you have figured out by now that not only did he call on me but within seconds I was on stage in front of 300 people. After doing the traditional bow and fighting stance I was on my way to becoming a Kung-Fu star. Now not being skilled in Kung-Fu technique I basically just did a few kicks and chops which I hoped would be enough to get me through this unexpected experience. I was wrong.

Before I knew it my adversary began doing a bunch of moves that you could only see in a Bruce Lee movie. Now after being dragged up on stage I wasn’t about to be shown up, so at this point I was left with only one option. The greatest karate move in cinematic history. That’s right folks, I am talking about “The Crane” from the one and only “Karate Kid.” Well after that there was nothing else for them to do but give me my complimentary “Jump” t-shirt and escort me down the steps to a rousing ovation from the audience. What a night!

By the way if you would like to buy tickets for this show or any other Off-Broadway show feel free to give us at 1-800-451-9930 or 212-307-7050, or simply visit our website at www.applause-tickets.com

Monday, November 12, 2007

Applause Theatre-See a Broadway Show!

Don’t have plans for the holidays yet? Nothing to do on a Saturday night? Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it. What better way to celebrate than by seeing a Broadway show. Now more than ever, Broadway is home to some of the most exciting and innovative plays and musicals in the country.

What do you prefer? Plays or musicals? From Cyrano de Bergerac to Mamma Mia! From Cymbeline to Xanadu. From Spring Awakening to Come Back, Little Sheba. From Is He Dead? to Hairspray. From Legally Blonde to Rock 'n' Roll. Broadway has it all and then some.

Or maybe Broadway isn’t your cup of tea. How about Off-Broadway? The past few years Off-Broadway has grown in popularity and has featured some of the most original works seen on stage in years. Give us a call and let one of our theatre experts assist you with all your Off-Broadway questions.

So many choices. So many things to see. From heavy dramas, to old fashioned Broadway musicals, now is the best time to visit New York City and experience LIVE THEATRE. There is nothing like it.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Stagehands Strike

Due to a strike by Local One, the IATSE stagehands, there will be no performances today at many Broadway theaters. All Off-Broadway shows and several Broadway productions, including Cymbeline, Mary Poppins, Mauritius, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, The Ritz, Xanadu and Young Frankenstein will perform as planned according to their normal schedules.

All other Broadway shows are cancelled for all performances on Sunday, November 11. The following shows are affected: A Bronx Tale, A Chorus Line, August: Osage County, Avenue Q, Chicago, Curtains, Cyrano de Bergerac, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Duran Duran: Red Carpet Massacre, Grease, Hairspray, Is He Dead?, Jersey Boys, Legally Blonde, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia!, Rent, Rock 'n' Roll, Spamalot, Spring Awakening, The Color Purple, The Drowsy Chaperone, The Farnsworth Invention, The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, The Phantom of the Opera, The Seafarer and Wicked.

If you purchased tickets through Applause for performances affected by the strike, please make a copy of your tickets and mail the originals to Applause and you will receive a full credit to your account.We would suggest mailing them either certified mail,UPS,or Fedex, or anyway that the package can be tracked. We must have the tickets in order to process the refund. Please note that any shipping fees including Fedex are non-refundable.

Please return your tickets to:
Applause Theatre and Entertainment
311 West 43rd Street, Suite 601
New York, NY 10036

If you have any questions, or would like to try and exchange the tickets for a future date feel free to give us a call at 1-800-451-9930 or 212-307-7050.

Friday, November 09, 2007

Happy Holidays from Applause

The holiday season is upon us and what better way to celebrate than by seeing a show. Whether you like dramas or comedies, plays or musicals, New York City is the place to be this fall.

Let's begin with everyone's favorite holiday show, The Radio City Christmas Spectacular. This year marks its 75th Anniversary, so they are sure to pull out all the stops with this one. Do not miss it.

An unexpected hit from last year returns for a limited run. I of course am talking about Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I saw the show last year and thought it was a lot of fun. If you are a fan of the cartoon or the movie I can guarantee you will not be disappointed. A great show for the whole family.

After a two year absence Cirque de Soleil returns to New York City with their latest work, Wintuk. This winter land extravaganza will play a limited run at the WaMu theatre at Madison Square Garden. Tickets are going fast so don’t delay.

Following in the success of The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast Disney returns with their latest smash, The Little Mermaid. Based on the highly successful 1989 film, The Little Mermaid tells the story of Ariel, and her desire to be human no matter what the consequences. Featuring ten new songs by Academy Award winner Alan Menken, The Little Mermaid is poised to be one of this season’s biggest hits.

A perennial holiday favorite is George Balanchine’s The Nutcraker. I remember seeing this as a young child during my first trip to New York City and it was an experience that I would never forget. If you get the chance to see it I highly recommend it. Besides the show’s listed above there are several shows you might want to check out during your stay. 1.) Wicked
2.) Jersey Boys
3.) Hairspray
4.) Rent
5.) Lion King
6.) Grease

Not only does Applause sell tickets but we are experts when it comes to finding the best restaurants to eat at while you are here. Check out Todd’s picks at http://www.applause-tickets.com/todds-dining.asp

Looking for the perfect Christmas Gift? Applause sells Gift Certificates. You pick the amount and we will take care of the rest. Give us a call at 1-800-451-9930 or order online.

Have a great holiday!

J.B.

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Welcome To Applause Theatre and Entertainment

For those of you who have never heard of Applause let me first start out by saying,"Where have you been?" Just kidding. We are Applause Theatre and Entertainment. Our motto is "Real People You Can Trust" That is something we take very seriously. Our story began in 1987 with two men and a dream. No I am not talking about the Wright Brothers. Rich Gladstone and Bill Stolting, the founding fathers if you will of Applause. Believe me when I say they have seen and done it all when it comes to this crazy world of ticketing,and they are still around to tell about it. That's tenacity.

Now 20 years later Applause ranks as one of the leaders in overall service and ticket availability in the country. You never have to worry about hearing the words "SOLD OUT" when you call Applause. So give us a try. What do you have to lose? Great tickets at at great price. How can you go wrong? Give us a call and let one of our representatives assist you and your family with all your ticketing needs.1-800-451-9930 or 212-307-7050. We are just a phone call away.



Applause Theatre and Entertainment
"Real People You Can Trust"

http://www.applause-tickets.com

New York Theatre

Well here it is folks. The Great Debate. Which is better? Orchestra or Mezzanine. Which place has the best view? According to some the Orchestra is the only place to sit. How many times have I heard a customer say" I only sit in the Orchestra." Well what most people don't know or often seem to forget is that in most Broadway houses 50-60% of the Orchestra is on the same level. But hey if you want to spend $200 to see the back of someones head be my guest.

I myself am a big fan of the Mezzanine. For one in most Broadway theatres the Mezzanine is smaller than the Orchestra. Plus it is elevated. To me that is what makes the Mezzanine better than the Orchestra. Nowadays the sets are so big. Plus being a director myself I know the importance of using the stage to it's full capacity. So you know that from mezzanine you are going to get a great overall view of EVERYTHING. Now don't get me wrong there are times when I love the Orchestra too. There is something so thrilling about being so close to the actor's. It really makes you feel like you are part of the show.

For the past two years Jersey Boys has been the most popular show in New York. Now unless you want to pay a premium(which we do have access too)http://www.applause-tickets.com/jersey-boys.asp, most of our seats are in the Mezzanine.
I finally got to see the show last week. Guess where I was sitting? Mezzanine Row Q Seat 10. THE LAST ROW. And guess how much I missed? NOTHING. That's right folks. I had a full view. Now in comparison to the Gershwin where Wicked, http://www.applause-tickets.com/jersey-boys.asp plays the August Wilson is a smaller theatre.(800 seats to be exact.) But when you compare a Broadway theatre to any theatre in the country our theatres are the smallest.

So next time you are shopping for tickets just remember that to have a good time you don't have to be "In the first ten rows" . So when it comes right down to it whether you are the first row of the Orchestra or the last row of the Mezzanine just remember that there is nothing like seeing a Broadway show. It is an experience you will never forget. See you at the theatre.