Would you go to a play by yourself? Theaters are hoping so

"We decided this could be an opportunity to design something specifically for those theatergoers, and maybe many others who may have been reluctant to attend on their own. This is not 'singles night.' If a meaningful connection happens, that's a bonus. But at the end of the day, it's really about being comfortable going solo to a show and enjoying it with people who have that same experience."

"According to ATG, 60 people signed up for the inaugural Solo Seats event—a recent weeknight performance of the touring Broadway musical The Notebook at San Francisco's Orpheum Theatre. The $75 ticket included a discounted orchestra seat, a pre-show mixer with fellow Solo Seats ticketholders, and a complimentary drink."

"I kind of love the idea of going to a show like how you would see a movie by yourself. I live within a walking distance. So usually I'll just get a rush ticket. I just love seeing whatever is in season."

Solo theater attendance on Broadway has surged dramatically, now accounting for nearly 20% of ticket purchases, double the rate from two years ago. In response, ATG Entertainment launched the 'Solo Seats' initiative to make solo theater-going more comfortable and appealing. The program offers discounted orchestra seats, pre-show mixers with fellow solo attendees, and complimentary drinks. The inaugural event attracted 60 people to a performance of The Notebook in San Francisco. Attendees ranged from first-time solo theatergoers to experienced solo patrons. The initiative reflects a broader cultural trend toward solo leisure activities, addressing both newcomers hesitant about attending alone and seasoned solo theater enthusiasts.

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