What is "Off-Broadway"

To understand Off-Broadway, you need to define it a little. It isn't enough to say Off-Broadway are the non-Broadway Theaters. For example, 2nd Stage is on the map below and impossible (from the map) to distinguish from Traditional Broadway Theaters. (Map from NYC Insiders Guide)

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Off-Broadway is loosely defined as New York Theaters with less than 500 seats (and normally more than 99). Some of the smaller New York "Broadway" theaters have fewer than 500 seats, but the are grandfathered into the Tony Awards cycle and thus considered Broadway.

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Off-Broadway Theaters also are governed by different Trade Union rules, which include lower compensation or lower employment requirements. This allows these theaters to mount new, experimental or targeted productions at a lower cost. Often shows will move from Off-Broadway to Broadway, sometimes with great results.

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Some recently relocated shows include Next To Normal, In The Heights, In The Fall and soon Yank: The Musical.

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For the Theater goer it is usually less expensive than a full Broadway production. The viewer is is rewarded often with a more intimate experience.

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And, since the runs are normally shorter or limited in time, often famous performers from other mediums (like Television or the Movies) will take the opportunity to perform in an Off-Broadway show.

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So venture out, you will be rewarded.