On any given night in New York City there can be up to thirty shows playing simultaneously. If you’re planning a trip to The Big Apple and want to take in some theater you might get overwhelmed with the myriad of choices. Here are a couple of main types of performances that might help you plan your itinerary.

Broadway Musicals

The term “Broadway Musical” actually originated in The City That Never sleeps. If you’re looking for a paradigmatic New York theatrical experience, this is it. From classics like “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Cats” to more modern successes like “Wicked” and “The Book of Mormon”, there is a musical for everyone…if not five.

Cabaret

Is there a more quintessential New York experience than attending a ny cabaret performance? Probably not. For those unfamiliar, cabaret is a specialized type of entertainment. It can feature music, singing, dancing, acting, spoken word, or recitation. What makes it stand out is generally the venue where it happens. Cabaret can take place in nightclubs, bars, casinos, or restaurants. They usually have a Master of Ceremonies, or MC, and audience members generally sit at tables. They are typically lively and performers often engage with their audience. If you’re looking for something fun, rowdy, and participatory, cabaret may be perfect for you.

Off-Broadway Shows

The term off-Broadway isn’t related to location. Rather, it references the size of a theater. An off-Broadway show is a theater in New York that seats a total of 99-499 people. An off-off-Broadway show seats under 99 people. Some of the smaller venues are better known for producing more experimental works, so if you want to see something entirely new this might be a good choice. There are hundreds of places to see performances in and around Manhattan.

Whether it’s acrobatics or flash mobs, New York has something for everyone. Take a look at all of your options, get tickets early, and enjoy the show – whatever it is.