In my former life, I was a theater and movie critic for a newspaper. I got to go to shows for free, bringing giddy nieces, tipsy friends and Mr. Wonderful to many a good show. Alas, my freeloading days are over. What’s a girl to do?
You figure out where the discounts are and you hunt them down. Challenge accepted, right?
Updated: July 9, 2018
I recommend not timing your kid’s first musical to coincide with the week you begin potty training.
Assuming you aren’t looking to buy a season ticket anywhere, here are some tips to help you afford your entertainment habit:
Follow them on social media
Organizations like Omaha Performing Arts (disclosure: I worked for this organization, but they are not endorsing or sponsoring this blog), Omaha Community Playhouse, Film Streams and The Rose are all active on different platforms. Find the place that offers shows that interest you and follow them on Facebook, Twitter or if they have a blog, follow that. If they offer discounts, especially last-minute ones, you can be sure they offer them to their fans first. You’ll even find giveaways on these platforms.
Know the discount days
Omaha Community Playhouse offers $10 tickets on the first Wednesday night of a performance, $7 tickets for students on weekends and half-off tickets if purchased the day of the performance. Visit here to get all the details. The Rose offers discount tickets if purchased at Hy-Vee; they’re good for up to $5 off each ticket.
And, Omaha Performing Arts often offers $5 off discounts and other promos on certain shows, so be on the lookout for those. They’ll probably let you know via email.
NET Supporter
If you donate $80 or more to Nebraska Public Television, you receive the NET MemberCard that gets you tons of discounts throughout Nebraska. While many of them are 2-for-1 discounts to museums and restaurants, you will find some great deals for performances.