Carrie Fisher Stars in Wishful Drinking on Broadway

I always had a "thing" for Carrie Fisher movies. From her debut starring with Warren Beatty in the 1975 hit film called Shampoo to her playing Meg Ryan's best friend in When Harry Met Sally.

Carrie Fisher is the daughter of Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds. She became known to generations of film lovers when she played the role of Princess Lea in the Star Wars trilogy, one of the best selling films of all time. She has appeared in many films as well as appeared in many episodes of Laverne and Shirley, Sex and The City, 30 Rock and Weeds. She is also the author of a best selling book based on her life called Postcards from the Edge whereby she discusses her battle with bipolar disorder and drug addiction, mental institutions, marriage (and divorce) to Paul Simon, what its like to have Elizabeth Taylor for a stepmother, having the father of her baby leave her for another man as well as experiencing a best friend die on her while sharing the same bed. That's an awful lot of drama for a human being to have to handle, wouldn't you say?

Ms. Fisher has just begun performances of her "one woman autobiographical" show on Broadway on September 22, 2009. The show is called Wishful Drinking and is a Roundabout Theatre Company production. It officially opens to critics reviews on October 4, 2009 and is a strictly limited engagement that will end on January 3, 2010. It will have a running time of just 2 hours with only one intermission.

In Wishful Drinking, we can expect to see Carrie Fisher explain what the "highs and lows" of being a Hollywood star were like. From being a youngster to enduring many of life's difficulties like suffering from depression, mental illness, having love affairs, problems with drug dependency and just about anything else she still might be able to remember.

I understand that Ms. Fisher will be sharing her life's stories with the audience in a similar fashion that she used in Postcards from the Edge. Postcards from the Edge was written with great wit, a keen sense of humor and great honesty.

It probably takes everything a person has to give to "lay it all out there" for everyone else to see. But my guess is that by doing so, Carrie Fisher has helped her get through some of life's serious times. Who knows how many thousands of people she can help by sharing pieces of her life with all of us. And I'm sure it will be done quite tastefully.

I am planning to see Wishful Drinking in the next two weeks at Studio 54 on Broadway, one of the Roundabout Theatre Company's Broadway homes. If you think you might be interested in seeing Carrie Fisher in her solo show, I would be pleased to offer you some advice on how to obtain discount tickets for performances through November 25, 2009. You might want to check out the below face value ticket deals my company Applause has been offering its customers.

Applause-tickets.com is an authorized ticket agency and is licensed by New York State (license #71AP1001029) to offer you tickets for Wishful Drinking or any of the Broadway Shows playing in New York City. I hope this information was helpful for you or someone you know.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Ticket Agency
311 West 43rd Street, Suite 601
NY,NY 10036
local phone 212-3-7-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
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Memphis A New Musical Playing on Broadway

What do you get when you mix a popular young, black female singer named Felicia with a white radio disc jockey with a name of Huey Calhoun? You get a brand new musical named Memphis A New Musical, which is previewing in New York right now.

Inspired by actual events, this musical tells the story of the "underground clubs" of Memphis in the 1950's. We are witness to a very unique collaboration of these two talented people in the music industry as they each struggle to break out from the confining work atmosphere they both have. It seems that Felicia cannot break free from playing outside the segregated music clubs but Huey's great passion for music seems to take her music far and well beyond to audiences all over the country. In addition, their passion for each other will be put to the test during this early period of when Rock and Roll began.

Chad Kimball plays the role of Huey Calhoun and has been seen on Broadway in Lennon, Good Vibrations, Into The Woods and The Civil War. Montego Glover plays Felicia Farrell. Broadway credits include The Color Purple, Ragtime, Dreamgirls, Aida and Once on This Island.

Some of the other cast members include Derrick Baskin, J. Bernard Calloway, James Monroe Iglehart, Michael McGrath, and Cass Morgan. 22 additional cast members make up the balance of what I understand is one of the most "electrifying" ensembles on Broadway today.

Mr. Joe Dipietro has written the book and lyrics for Memphis A New Musical. He was last seen on Broadway in All Shook Up, and Off Broadway in I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change (a former long running Off Broadway hit for many years) and several other shows. He recently received the 2009 Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off Broadway Musical for his work with David Bryan in The Toxic Avenger (currently playing at the New World Stages Off Broadway). Mr. Bryan is responsible for writing the music and lyrics for Memphis A New Musical as well. He is a Grammy Award-winning keyboard player and one of the original founders of Bon Jovi.

I am going to attend a preview performance that I have been invited to on Thursday October 8, 2009. When you work in the theater business like I have for over 32 years, you hear allot of things about shows in previews. Some are good, some not so good. Right now the word of mouth is that this show, Memphis A New Musical, is going to be one of the bright spots in this fairly new Broadway season. I will report back on the show right after I see it. I'm really excited as I've been following Mr. Bryan's career for a few years now.

Before I close, let me offer some free advice to anyone who might be interested in seeing Memphis A New Musical. Being an insider in the ticket selling business for a long time now, I often try to advise the public exactly how to obtain seats at a discount when attending Broadway Shows. In the case of Memphis A New Musical, this show looks like a real winner so far and probably will get great critical reviews. Hopefully it will start "selling out" all its seats. But right now the show is looking for people to fill up the seats, enjoy the show then spread the natural "word of mouth" about how great it is.

So if you think you might want to take a chance and catch a preview performance of Memphis A New Musical or even one of the shows after it opens to critic's reviews, simply consider giving me a call at Applause Ticket Agency (NY State License #71AP1001029). We are located right in New York City and know all there is to know about everything happening on Broadway. Be sure to mention the BFV ticket discount ticket offer. If you purchase tickets now I can get you the best seats at below the usual cost.

At Applause there is no pressure to buy tickets ever. We are just honest folks that like to talk about theater. Along the way, if you decide you want to see a show, we'd love to assist you. We can even make dinner reservations for you at places we love to dine at ourselves.

Could you posssibly get this very personal, high level of service from any one of the large on-line ticket services? Remember to call Applause and say The Ticket Man told you to call.

That's me, Rich Gladstone, The Ticket Man. Enjoy the theater my friends. For my money, there's nothing like it!

Regards,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Ticket Agency
311 west 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
local phone 212-307-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
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Bye Bye Birdie Is Back On Broadway

I saw the first revival of Bye Bye Birdie tonight at the newly refurbished Henry Miller Theater. It's the opening of the Roundabout Theatre Company's 2009-2010 theater season. Bye Bye Birdie last appeared on Broadway 48 years ago and was a Tony Award-winning musical at the time. Although this Bye Bye Birdie aims to please its audience, somehow I think it never quite gets you to fall in love with everything that goes on, on the stage. Still it is a show that has lots of "heart". The hard working and energetic cast is the one reason why I think many out-of-towners and locals alike should consider buying tickets.

Bye Bye Birdie is based on the 1963 film starring Dick Van Dyke, Ann Margaret and Janet Leigh. The show tells the story of an "Elvis-like" rock star named Conrad Birdie (played by Nolan Gerard Funk, making his Broadway debut) who seems to have every girl in the nation eating out of the palm of his hands. Conrad travels to Sweet Apple, Ohio where he is supposed to give "one last kiss" to young teenager Kim MacAfee (who just happens to be the leader of his fan club), just before he is to be drafted into the military. The special "kiss" is to take place on The Ed Sullivan Show on nationwide TV. Sounds kind of corny but "public relations is public relations, right"?

The main characters in the show are Conrad Birdie's record producer/manager Albert Peterson (played very capably by John Stamos) and his love interest Rose Alvarez (played by Gina Gershon). Mr. Stamos has played in Broadway's Cabaret, Nine and How To Succeed in Business..., as well as film and television for over 25 years now. He is always fun to watch in every medium he performs in and can even "carry a tune" quite nicely in this show. He has toured the country frequently throughout his career playing the drums with The Beach Boys, my favorite band.

Miss Gershon, who was last seen on Broadway in the 2008 Best Play Revival named Boeing- Boeing,has appeared in Cabaret, Camille, several other theater productions and a ton of film and television as well. She was very funny in Boeing-Boeing and tonight showed she has versatility while being able to convey herself as a "good girl" as well as someone who can "strut her stuff" as well. Although not a singer, she capably handles her song material. In Bye Bye Birdie, she plays Albert's secretary of 8 years waiting and waiting for him to propose. Unfortunately Albert's mother Mae has been against the relationship all the time. Mae is played by the very funny Jayne Houdyshell. She has performed in "Wicked" and "Well" on Broadway and has lots of additional theater, film and television credits. There are several moments where she clearly steals the show.

Rounding out the large cast are Bill Irwin who plays the young teenager Kim MacAfee's father and Dee Hoty as her mom. Mr. Irwin has an incredibly accomplished career that includes several Broadway shows, winning a Tony Award for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf in 2005 and lots of film and television credits too. Mr. Irwin might just be the best thing about this production of Bye Bye Birdie. He is funny and has a very unique style with mannerisms that make him quite noticeable throughout the evening. Dee Hoty has earned several nominations for Broadway appearances in Footloose, The Best Little Whorehouse Goes Public and The Will Rogers Follies. She has played the role of Donna Sheridan in Mamma Mia! in many cities throughout the country and also played major roles in City of Angels, Me and My Girl, The Five O'Clock Girl and Shakespeare's Cabaret.

I thought that the Conrad Birdie role could have been a stronger one but maybe its because Mr. Funk needs a little more experience on the Broadway stage. Only time will tell.

Bye Bye Birdie has a book by Michael Stewart with excellent music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Lee Adams. The sets are quite nicely done by Andrew Jackness with really colorful costumes by Gregg Barnes.

There are many songs in Bye Bye Birdie that take me back to the 1960's as I now recall the film from my childhood. The include "We Love You Conrad", "Put On A Happy Face", "One Boy", "One Last Kiss", "Kids", "A Lot Of Livin' To Do", "Rosie" and of course "Bye Bye Birdie".

So even though I sat in the audience for 2 hours and 20 minutes tonight, and was waiting for the show to "wow" me, maybe some of us expect too much when we go to the theater. Does every show have to "wow" us? I've seen 18 of the shows currently playing on Broadway. I've enjoyed many of them. And although maybe I expected too much from this Bye Bye Birdie, it is a show still worth seeing.

If you need advice on obtaining discount tickets while the show is in previews, I'd be happy to help you. Call me at Applause Ticket Agency (license #71AP1001029) in New York City, toll free at 800-451-9930 or locally at 212-307-7050. I consider myself a Broadway Show ticketing expert and would love to help you get great seats and prices for Bye Bye Birdie on Broadway.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Ticket Agency
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
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Broadway Ticket Prices-Checkout Applause's Price Match Guarantee

Anyone that keeps abreast of what's happening on Broadway knows that our company Applause Theater Service has an outstanding level of personal service since the company's inception back in September 1987. After 22 years of catering to the theater going public for Broadway Show tickets, we'd like to share a little secret with anyone shopping for tickets to Broadway Theater in New York City.

We suggest people stop clicking on lots of different web sites (well maybe just a few might be a good idea). Simply check out the show you want to attend as well as the day and date and number of tickets you need. Take this information along with the specific show or shows you are interested in and simply call Applause Theater Service in New York. Ask "how much it will cost to buy tickets for the event you want to attend".

I know you will find our service fantastic. The prices will be fair as well. However, if you find a better price from another authorized licensed ticket agency from New York State, simply mention the Applause PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE. We are sure you'll be ecstatic with our superior service and great every day reasonable prices.

Remember to tell the Applause staff that The Ticket Man sent you. I guarantee you'll love the service, prices and experience of doing business with a "local expert".

Thanks for reading. I hope you find this information helpful to you.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Theater Service (NY State license #71AP1001029)
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
NY, NY 10036
local phone 212-307-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
web site
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Customer Story-How to Buy Broadway Tickets at Prices You Want To Pay

Funny thing happens when people shop the Internet for Broadway Show Tickets. My guess is that consumers click on several web sites (most of which look and feel the same), they then see prices ranging from high to ridiculously expensive. Why do I say this you might ask?

Its simple really. Many ticket companies want to charge the highest price they can, not really paying attention to the fact that consumers are looking for the best seat at the least amount they have to pay. Especially during these economic times.

Being a proud owner of one of New York State's few licensed and legitimate ticket agencies (NY State license #71AP1001029) for over 22 years now, I would put my reputation next to any other ticket service that specializes in obtaining Broadway tickets for the public. I guarantee that no other licensed ticket agency in New York State will offer service anywhere near that of our company, Applause Theatre Service. And just to show you that we listen to customers and shoppers that call Applause's service, let me share a customer story with you.

Today I received a call from Sharon from Andalusia, Alabama. She had been on line searching out seats and prices for Jersey Boys in New York City for early December. When I told Sharon exactly where she would be sitting in the orchestra, she said "that's great but she said "Rich, your prices are higher than I see on the Internet". The reason our prices are higher I explained are because we offer a very personal service, take our time with customers and offer "exact seat locations". Still Sharon seemed to value the service I was giving her but wanted to pay the lower competitor price. Being the 31 year sales veteran of Broadway Theater that I am, I simply asked "how much did my competitor quote you Sharon"? When she gave me the lower price and I told her which one of the competitors it was, I went further to ask if she'd "like me to match the price". She said "Rich, if you match the price and promise to give me the exact seats you offered me, I will give you the business. And send other folks to buy from you as well".

So I confirmed Sharon's order and am mailing the tickets today. Although I run a company that has a level of service that far "outshines" most others in the ticket business, I am happy to make a new customer today.

If you are tired of searching and searching for Broadway Show tickets, clicking from one web site to the next to the next, etc. maybe it's time you called on a local Broadway expert to help you with tickets. At Applause, its not about making quick sales and lots of profit. It's about people. Our people on staff and our customers. Sure anyone can say they have the best service. What I'm doing is simply putting my money where my mouth is.

If you want to experience the best service on Broadway, consider giving Applause Theater Service a call today. Ask for our PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE. And tell them the Ticket Man sent you. You'll be so glad you did.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Theater Service (NY State license #71AP1001029)
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
New York, New York 10036
local phone 212-307-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
web site
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Superior Donuts on Broadway

Here's my take on Superior Donuts, a very funny new play that is in previews at the Music Box Theater in New York. I loved everything about Superior Donuts. Let me tell you exactly why.

My initial excitement about Superior Donuts is that I love the writing of its playwright, Tracy Letts. Many folks will recall that Tracy Letts is the author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play August:Osage County, which picked up the Tony Award for Best Play in 2008.

Superior Donuts is a wonderful comedy-drama about a local donut store owner in an uptown Chicago neighborhood. We get to witness the often daily mundane routine of the shops owner named Arthur Przybyszewski and the relationships with the small circle of friends and customers that we see come in and out of his outdated little shop. In particular, we get to witness a young black man who comes to work at Superior Donuts who manages to have a great impact on Arthur. At first he tries to convince his new boss to update the old donut shops appearance along with making suggestions on how he might go about making a greater effort to try to improve business in general. Instead he stirs up some feelings in Arthur that he almost forgot he had. And of course there are the local cops on the beat that look out for the local merchants as well as the neighborhood hoodlums. All in all, what starts out as a fairly straight forward mellow sort of staging of the daily relationship between Arthur (played by Michael McKean), and his new employee Franco (played by Jon Michael Hill), winds up being lots of laughs as well as witnessing some very deep feelings of just how far friends will go for each other.

Mr. McKean has done some very good work on Broadway, most recently receiving a 2008 Drama Desk Ensemble award in The Homecoming. He has appeared in the 2006 Tony Award winning revival of The Pajama Game and played roles in Hairspray and Accomplice. He has done Off Broadway, film and television. most notably for playing the role of Lenny in Laverne and Shirley. Although I remember the Laverne and Shirley TV show like it was just yesterday, I had never seen him in a serious role before. He does a great job playing the role of Arthur.

Mr. Hill often "steals the show" with several funny lines. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a BFA, is a member of Steppenwolf Theater Company since 2007, has appeared in several shows around the country as well as having had a recurring role on Guiding Light and also made his Opera debut in A Midsummer Night's Dream.

In addition to the two wonderful actors I previously mentioned is a superb supporting cast that includes Jane Alderman, Kate Buddeke, Cliff Chamberlain, Michael Garvey, Robert Maffia, James Vincent Meredith and Yasen Peyankov. All of these talented actors have had a great deal of experience working their theater craft in the city of Chicago, most recently with the Steppenwolf Theater Company. Many people will recall that August:Osage County is a Steppenwolf Theater Company production as well. They know how to create fantastic theater experiences and we are fortunate that shows that originate in Chicago have been making their way to New York City the last few years.

I had the great pleasure to attend a performance of Superior Donuts a few days ago on September 17, 2009. Although it was only the second New York City preview perfomance of Tracy Letts latest play, I simply have to suggest to you to try and get yourself some tickets as soon as you can for this terrific new play. It has everything a show needs to entertain its audience. It's chock full of the right blending of comedy, drama, great acting talent that aims to please every moment they are on the stage, as well as a simple yet excellent staging of the show. Superior Donuts is directed by Tina Landau who has been involved with 12 productions with Steppenwolf over the years.

Although the new Broadway season only just began this past June 2009, so far it looks to me like Superior Donuts could very well be one of the top contenders for the 2010 Tony Award winning show for Best Play. It will have to compete with several new plays like Wishful Drinking, Race, A Steady Rain and others that surely will appear in New York over the coming months.

I hope you enjoyed reading my blog and review of Superior Donuts. If you think you might want to see Superior Donuts in the near future, may I suggest you give me a call in New York. I run a company that sells tickets to Superior Donuts and have the ability to get you excellent seats at below face value prices. Simply put, I can get you great seats at less than the usual printed price on the ticket.

One might ask how can you acquire tickets at less than cost? The answer is a simple one. Right now the show is looking to build an audience with word of mouth and hopefully garner really good reviews from the New York critics. Also they will look to win some Tony Awards in June 2010. Until these things begin to happen for Superior Donuts, ticket sales will benefit from our company Applause Theater Service offering you discounted tickets of admission.

You can save the most money for Superior Donuts on Tuesdays through Fridays but I can offer discounted seats for weekend performances as well, so not to worry. I loved Superior Donuts and can see why everyone else will also. Why not pay less and consider buying tickets before it possibly starts selling out?

When calling Applause, you can use our toll free number at 800-451-9930 or call us locally in New York City at 212-307-7050. And be sure to ask for me, Rich Gladstone, also known as the Broadway Ticket Man. No kidding, that's what many folks call me.

All kidding aside, I think I help to run the best ticket agency in the country. Our staff is warm and friendly, we have an excellent knowledge of everything on Broadway and we aim to please. If you think you are interested in other Broadway Theater, we'd love to be of service to you, your friends, family and people you work with.

Have you ever heard the expression "try us, you'll like us"? That's my promise to you today. Whether you need tickets to Broadway Shows or just want to talk about Broadway Theater or anything in New York, all you have to do is pickup the phone.

Enjoy Superior Donuts or the Broadway Show of your choosing. I hope this information was helpful to you.

Take care theater lovers.
Regards,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Theater Service
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
New York, NY 10036
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Customers Enjoy Ticket Options on Broadway

Applause Ticket Agency gives customers plenty of time and offers several different seating options for Broadway Theater.

For example, I spoke to Ron from Connecticut a few days ago and he was interested in seeing Wicked in New York City but didn't want to pay "an arm and a leg" to get into the show. When I suggested he consider purchasing seats in the mid mezzanine section of the theater for the 2 pm performance of Wicked on Saturday October 17, 2009, he asked me "how much do these tickets cost" ? After I quoted the same everyday usual low price at Applause Theater Service, Ron seemed very happy and bought the seats. The seats were located in the mezzanine, row G and a little off center, pretty good seats for sure.

I know this might sound like no big deal to many folks but many people attending the Broadway Shows all over town, don't often realize that they can choose seating that is a little further away from the stage (but that still gives you a great view of all the action on stage). Simply ask for mid mezzanine seating or front balcony seating. As you go back in the theater, every several rows offers a lower price seating option. Why spend more than you have to?

Whether you use a service that's been around a long time like Applause Ticket Agency (over 22 years now), it makes sense to consider using a licensed ticket agency (our license is NY State #71AP1001029). At the very least, you should have a clear understanding of where the seats you are about to purchase are located.

Wicked is a great show, playing in New York for about 6 years now. If you haven't had a chance to see it, consider calling the good folks at Applause Ticket Agency. They know the theater better than most.

Good luck. Enjoy Wicked in New York or the Broadway Show of your choosing.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
AKA The Broadway Ticket Man
Applause Ticket Agency
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
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Broadway Seating Options Are Here To Stay

Years ago when you bought tickets for a Broadway Show, one could purchase an orchestra and front mezzanine seat for the highest price per ticket then there was a rear mezzanine seat for less money. Those days are over.

Nowadays you can purchase tickets for Broadway Shows and ask for premium seating, generally in the 1st 10 rows of the theater. These seats cost allot more than the best available orchestra and/or front mezzanine seats. In fact sometimes a show is so popular that they charge the "premium" price but the seats are really almost the same as the "best available" seats. For those folks on a budget (and who isn't these days?), you can purchase seats in the mid mezzanine or rear mezzanine section of most theaters for considerably less money. Sure the seats become further away from the stage as you pay less and less but there are no really big theaters on Broadway. The largest isn't even 2000 seats, smaller than just about any out-of-town theater for sure.

So now let me tell you about a "secret" that probably no other ticket agency specializing in Broadway ticket sales will. Did you know that by shopping around and talking with the experts about seating options and different prices available, that you might be able to save considerable money when buying tickets? It is important to write down the name of the person you speak with and their company name. Then make notes with seat locations and prices you are offered. If you don't get specific answers to your questions, you should consider using someone that makes you feel that you can trust them.

The ticket industry is filled with lots of companies all trying to sell tickets, mostly at prices that are much higher than they need to be. There are 2 reasons for this.
1. Many just want to make a sale.
2.Most companies don't think about keeping the customer for a long period of time.

I speak to lots of people every day that obviously shop around, get many different prices from several companies and still seem to be confused as to which tickets they should consider purchasing. My personal suggestion as a ticket industry expert specializing in Broadway ticket sales is to find someone you can talk with that knows everything about the shows and the theaters. Equally important is to make sure the person you speak with "takes their time" and explains all the different options to you.

Did you know there is a way to buy tickets for nearly 20 Broadway Shows at Below Face Value? All you have to do is ask.

You can contact Applause Theater Service, right in the heart of New York City 7 days a week. Their phone numbers and web site are listed below.

Good luck.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Theater Service
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
local phone 212-307-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
web site
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Competing for a Slice of Broadway Ticket Sales

I don't usually like it when people simply want others in business to bring their prices down because they can buy an item elsewhere for less. But give me a few moments to explain how we made a new customer today.

I received a call from Denise, who "Googled" us last night from California. When I quoted her my company price for show tickets in New York to see God of Carnage, this years play of the year, she asked me why I asked her to pay $174.00 a ticket when as she said "I can buy them on the Internet for less". When I asked her which one of the nearly a thousand companies that sell Broadway tickets these days, she then offered the name saying the other company charged less but didn't really offer any "service.

I asked her if the other ticket company offered her a price of $151.00. When she said that was correct, I then proceeded to tell her that we would offer her "an exact seat location", something I was fairly sure the "other guys" didn't specify. Denise was extremely happy with our service, something everyone at our company offers, along with excellent seats and when I said "Denise, I think you still want to pay me a lower price right"? She hesitated and I simply said "Denise, consumers today want the best price and service they can get for their hard earned money. If you give me the request, I will fill it with great seats and match my competitors price". She was thrilled.

When I say Denise was thrilled, she really was but somehow I think the few dollars she got back from Applause was the least of it. She said she was ecstatic with our service and would tell all her friends and relatives about our company Applause.

What could be better than satisfied customers that talk about us? If this happened earlier in my career, I might have gloated somewhat that I possibly "stole a sale away from the competition". But for now, I am honored that shoppers and customers simply know the difference when it comes to "service".

If you want to experience excellent service yourself and are planning a trip to see one of the fantastic Broadway Shows, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact Applause Theater Service 7 days a week right here in the heart of New York City at 212-307-7050 or toll free at 800-451-9930.

Just call up and ask for Rich or one of the friendly ticket staffers all ready to make your trip to Broadway one you'll never forget.

That's a promise I can guaranteee you. Talk with you soon I hope.
Regards,
Rich Gladstone
Vice President/Co-Founder
Applause Theater Service
311 west 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036

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The Recession May Be Over for Some of Us on Broadway

But will high Broadway ticket prices hurt the shows even when recession ends?

I've been working in the Broadway ticket business forever it seems. Even though the Broadway theater has been doing quite well this last year and a half, as I look at sales figures from some of the Broadway Shows recently-it looks like some of the shows are beginning to wane a bit.

Being an entrepreneur for just about 22 years now, I pride myself on being a provider of "excellent service" with fair and reasonable service charges for our ticket service. I think that's one big reason why our little company called Applause Theater Service will always be around in good times and in bad.

So every week I study the sales figures for 20-28 Broadway Shows and I see a similar pattern all the time. It seems like a new show can open like Burn The Floor to pretty good reviews, then sales start to rise but after a few weeks or so, the numbers begin to fall. Almost like they are an "older show" that might be closing somewhere in the near future.

You might remember 9 to 5 The Musical opening on Broadway a few months ago. It is a solid Broadway theater piece. Unfortunately it is like many others that have appeared on the Great White Way in years past. 9 to 5 The Musical received decent reviews but the word of mouth with a pretty attractive "star cast" with music by Dolly Parton herself seemed to be enough to start selling lots of tickets. But the problem again that I noticed weeks ago is that sales began to slow right away as well.

What I'm saying here is that recession or no recession, people don't want to pay the high price of admission to theater, concerts or any sporting events if they feel it is overpriced. So why doesn't the Broadway theater go to a price structure that might be more conducive to charging lower prices. Maybe they can price the theater so that people feel like they got a good value, a great experience and then simply let the "word of mouth" about the show take their natural course. That would sure sell more tickets wouldn't it?

All you ever seem to hear people saying is that football and baseball tickets cost too much and that Broadway theater is too expensive to go anymore. This is generally true if you don't know the "little secrets" to buying tickets for Broadway Theater as well as any reserved seating event ticket.

Although I cannot literally divulge our secrets, what I can tell you is this: shop around, talk to a human being and make sure you are getting the very best seat for the very best price. After all, its your money right?

Make your calls and your Internet inquiries then give a call to Applause at 800-451-9930 or 212-307-7050 right here in New York City. Applause Theater Service has been around nearly 22 years this September 1, 2009. We are a licensed ticket agency (license #71AP1001029) for all the shows in New York.

You have nothing to lose. You definitely will save lots of money and experience our excellent service as well. Let us know how we can help you solve your problems of paying too much for your tickets.

Just tell them The Broadway Ticket Man sent you. That's me, Rich Gladstone.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Theater Service
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
local phone 212-307-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
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Broadway Ticket Deals Update

Here' a round of newly updated specially priced ticket deals from the Broadway Ticket Experts at Applause Theater Service in New York City. Applause is a locally licensed ticket agency (license #71AP1001079) that provides an exceptional personal service as well as the best value when it comes to buying tickets to Broadway. Here's the list of discounted shows. They are:

39 Steps -good through October 4, 2009

9 to 5 The Musical -good though September 6, 2009

Avenue Q -good through September 11, 2009

Burn The Floor -good through October 18, 2009

Bye Bye Birdie -good through October 15, 2009

Chicago The Musical-good through November 1, 2009

Hair -good through August 30, 2009

In The Heights -good through September 6, 2009

Mamma Mia! -good through October 30, 2009

Mary Poppins -good through September 5, 2009

Memphis The New Musical -good through October 18, 2009

Next to Normal -good through August 30, 2009

Rock of Ages -good through October 8, 2009

Shrek The Musical -good through October 4, 2009

The Phantom of the Opera -good through September 5, 2009

Wishful Drinking -good through October 4, 2009

Whenever you feel the need to "talk Broadway Theater", tickets or dining out in New York City, simply call us at 212-307-7050 or toll free 800-451-9930 anytime at all. We love to talk. Tell them The Broadway Ticket Man sent you today.

Take care friends.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Theater Service
311 west 43rd Street, suite 601
New York, NY 10036
local phone 212-307-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
web site

Facebook

Follow us at www.twitter.com/applausetickets

Broadway Theater Ticket Buying Tips

Applause Theater Service-New York City July 9, 2009

Here are my personal tips for obtaining affordable tickets for all the Broadway Shows in New York City.

1. First it might be a good start to search for a New York State licensed ticket agency to help you in your quest to find the best seats for the best shows at the very best prices. Applause Theater Service (our company) has been in business for nearly 22 years. Our NY State license #71AP1001029 is current and we are local experts on all the Broadway Shows playing.

2. Make sure the ticket company you contact can be reached by telephone as well as on-line. It's a good idea to make sure there is someone you can speak with "live" at the ticket company, then have a conversation so you can make a judgement as to whether or not you may want to do business with them. Talking with "real people" will help you with your decision making plans.

3. Check out the ticket companies web site to determine what their ticket returns, cancellation and exchange policies are. We don't recommend buying tickets unless you have your airline tickets and hotel accommodations first but we will try to hold seats for you until your plans are complete. This extra service is something that separates us from others in the ticket business.

4. Many of the Broadway Shows have Below Face Value ticket deals for some of their performances. Simply contact Applause in New York or check out the Below Face Value page on our web site. Simply put, we often can secure top priced seats for you at prices that are below the "usual printed price" on the tickets. The explanation is a simple one really. Some shows have been on longer than others and have excess inventory which they offer us at a discount. We then pass on savings to Applause customers, add a small service fee and get you amazing seats at discount prices.

There may be hundreds of web sites that seem to be selling tickets for Broadway. This makes it hard to know who to purchase from. Just make sure you know who you are dealing with, feel comfortable that the company is reputable and that you are being offered the best possible prices.

Applause Theater Service in New York City is one of the "local experts" for Broadway Theater. They are open seven days a week, 365 days a year. You can contact them at 212-307-7050 at their theater district in New York or toll free at 800-451-9930. They love talking about Broadway Theater in New York.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Vice President
Applause Theater Service
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
web site
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The Little Mermaid on Broadway- a 2009 Summer Spectacle

I've seen most of the Broadway Shows playing in New York City but the one I often think of to suggest to families visiting The Big Apple is Disney's The Little Mermaid. Based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, a famous Danish author and poet, The little Mermaid tells the interesting story of a young mermaid who wants to give up her life "under the sea" in exchange for the one she often dreams of- a human life above the ocean. A life where a mermaid by the name of Ariel, longs for the love a human prince.
The Little Mermaid is Disney on Broadway's latest Broadway creation adapted from the 1989 animated film by The Walt Disney Company. The Broadway production opened on Broadway on January 10, 2008. Although many theater-goers seem to think that the stage production of The Little Mermaid is primarily for younger kids and teenagers, I have to say that after seeing the show several times myself, it is every bit as worthy of seeing for adults as so many of the other popular Broadway Shows playing this year.

The Little Mermaid has gorgeous music by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman with a few new songs co-written by Mr. Menken and Glenn Slater. The scenic design is by George Tyspin with amazing costume design by Tatiana Noginova and a book by Doug Wright. The current stars of The Little Mermaid are Chelsea Morgan Stock (as Ariel), Faith Prince (as Ursula), Drew Seeley (as Prince Eric) and Norm Lewis (as King Triton).

Right now our theater ticket agency called Applause Theater Service (license #71AP001029) has special insider discount ticket deals through the entire summer of 2009. We call it the BFV ticket deal. BFV stands for Below Face Value which is our way of bringing about amazingly low prices on The Little Mermaid as well as nearly 20 or so other popular Broadway Shows. If you think this show might be one that you and your family will enjoy, we hope you'll consider calling on Applause to obtain the best seats in the house for the cheapest ticket agency price in the country. There's only one way to know if what we say is true. Simply shop around and give us a chance to provide you with our brand of service with the usual everyday Applause low prices.

There's never any pressure to buy when using our service. We simply want to inform the public about what's playing on Broadway and the way to go about buying the best seats for the best shows at the best prices. I hope you found this information helpful and that we can be of service to you, your friends and your family whenever your plans include seeing a Broadway Show.

Enjoy the Broadway Theater whenever you get the chance. Bye for now.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause Theater Service
311 West 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
local phone 212-307-7050
toll free 800-451-9930
web site

Follow us on www.twitter.com/applausetickets
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Next to Normal-Could it win the 2009 Best Musical Tony Award?

Next to Normal is one of the most innovative new shows this season and has been nominated for 11 Tony Awards in 2009. So look out Broadway theater fans. This years awards ceremony should be interesting to say the least.

Next to Normal is an exciting and vibrant new musical that deals with family crisis. The show deals with mental illness and has an amazing cast. They include J. Robert Spencer (one of the original Jersey Boys stars) and Alice Ripley, a Broadway regular who was seen in Rocky Horror Picture Show and Side Show of a few years ago. In addition, supporting cast members are wonderfully talented actors that include Jennifer Damiano, Aaron Tveit, Adam Chanler-Berat and Louis Hobson.

Next to Normal was written by Brian Yorkey. He also wrote the lyrics and the music is by Tom Kitt. The music is contemporary, electrifying at times and includes 30 songs. Direction is by Michael Greif who was involved with Rent some years back.

I almost wish two shows could win Best Musical awards then it wouldn't be so hard to choose a winner, right? I loved Billy Elliot but it is quite possible that the Tony Award voters could give the thumbs up to Next to Normal. It is a daring, innovative and "let it all hang out there" musical. Something we don't usually get to witness all that often in a Broadway musical.

In any case, if the show wins a bunch of awards, I think it could start "selling out" most performances as it is playing in Broadway's small Booth Theater, a wonderful little place where plays and musicals all give you a great view from any seat in the house really. So for now friends, if you call Applause Theater Service at 212-307-7050 or toll free at 800-451-9930, we can get you into Next to Normal for BELOW FACE VALUE. You may ask how? It's simple really, right now the show is not selling out and Applause has access to discount pricing. If it becomes a great big popular hit after winning some Tony Awards, I can pretty much guarantee you'll have to pay full price for a ticket plus a service charge. The discount offer is valid for all performances through June 7, 2009.

We hope to hear from you when your plans include buying tickets to see Next to Normal or any of the fun Broadway Shows in New York City. Take care now.

Sincerely,
Rich Gladstone
Applause
311 west 43rd Street, suite 601
NY,NY 10036
web site
follow me on twitter.com/applausetickets

Checkout Applause's Broadway Ticket Service-Now on Twitter

For those of you Broadway Show lover's who also like to "tweet" about things in life you might want to have a look at all the Broadway ticket offerings and specials we have every day at twitter.com/applausetickets .

If you like, you can call us too at our New York office at 212-307-7050 or toll free at 800-451-9930. You can have a look at our cool web site as well at http://www.applause-tickets.com/ .

We love Broadway theater and know how to get the best seats, shows and prices for people every day.