Want to be the star of your very own a one-woman show?
While it may not be on the silver screen or on stage, attending the theater or movies on your own can be a fun, relaxing or even liberating experience that comes recommended by many—and maybe feared by a few.
In a bustling city like New York, it’s hard to find quiet time, so the one place where you are guaranteed absolute silence from the strangers around you is in a theater.
This is the case on Broadway in New York City, as according to a representative at TodayTix, a digital ticketing platform, more than 50% of TodayTix purchases for are for Rush tickets, which are single tickets via their same-day access programs eligible only through the TodayTix phone app.
Furthermore, 30% of purchases over the last 30 days on TodayTix in New York were for one single ticket, according to the representative via email on Nov. 20.
To switch into the first person for just a moment, I was one of those 30%, snagging a same-day ticket to “Illinoise” on Broadway which was having a very limited run. Not only did I get an incredible seat with somehow no one next to me (and Broadway chairs are infamously tiny, so this was a huge plus for my elbows and knees) but I felt immensely empowered and not at all awkward, even during intermission when the lights came on for a brief break.
Broadway calls many to it’s stages, including content creator Kelsey Kotzur, who filmed a ‘get ready with me’ video ahead of attending ‘One More Time’ the Britney Spears musical, alone. Kotzur, 30, of Brooklyn, revealed that she received mostly positive comments and DMs on that TikTok, starting a dialogue around independence and empowerment.
“It makes me feel powerful if I’m being honest,” said Kotzur of going to shows alone. “I love being able to get there when I want and leave whenever I want. I always feel so independent after doing things solo. I feel like I can accomplish anything!”
Those that shy away from solo activities for fear of judgement can also take solace knowing that for the majority of the experience, there won’t even be enough lights to see that you are partnerless, as you enjoy the dark around you. This isn’t the case while dining or drinking alone, so it truly is the perfect foray into more independant adventures.
In her video, Kotzur mentioned that she planned things to do after the show, like go shopping or grab a bite to eat. If that helps you feel more confident heading out, knowing you have an itinerary for afterward, plan for that, or even call a friend to meet up on the tail end of your adventure, so you’ll know there is the comfort of a familiar face waiting for you on the other side.
Kotzur likes to be in the moment while taking herself out on solo excursions, but for those who may be more timid, she did have one suggestion.
“I think having headphones and good music or a podcast to listen to in line or while you’re waiting is an easy way to make you feel comfortable,” suggested Kotzur.
Whether your motivation is saving money on a last minute rush ticket for a single seat or the more intrapersonal goal of finding self confidence and independence, let this show one thing: there are plenty of folks who are enjoying the show alone, and they may even be seated right next to you.