The Play that Goes Wrong

The Play That Goes Wrong is a riotous comedy that has become a staple of New York’s Theater District since its Broadway debut. Performed at the historic Lyceum Theatre on West 45th Street, the show is a play-within-a-play: the fictional Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society attempts to stage a murder mystery, but everything that can go wrong does. From collapsing sets to forgotten lines and physical mishaps, the humor is relentless and perfectly timed. The production is a masterclass in slapstick, with actors executing intricate pratfalls and comedic disasters with precision. The audience is swept into the chaos, laughing at the absurdity while admiring the skill behind the mayhem. The Lyceum Theatre itself, one of Broadway’s oldest venues, adds to the charm with its ornate interior and intimate seating. The show has won multiple awards, including a Tony for Best Scenic Design, and continues to draw crowds for its universal appeal, no deep plot to follow, just pure, unadulterated fun. It’s an ideal choice for both theater veterans and first-timers seeking a lighthearted night out in New York City.

Don't miss

• Watch the set literally fall apart, the show’s technical mishaps are choreographed to perfection.
• Laugh at the actors’ deadpan reactions as they struggle to keep the 'play' going.
• Spot the running gags and callbacks that reward repeat viewers.
• Enjoy the intimate Lyceum Theatre, a Broadway landmark with gilded details and excellent sightlines.
• Arrive early to catch the pre-show 'accidents' happening in the lobby and on stage.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Play that Goes Wrong

Cheapest way inNew York City Chilling Nightmares & Necromancy Ghost Tour4.3★ · 13 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$26 per personSee dates →Most bookedNew York City One World Observatory Admission Ticket4.3★ · 2,687 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →Top ratedGarbage and Rats in New York City Walking Tour5★ · 127 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$45 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Arrive at least 15 minutes early; late seating is limited and may not be available after the show starts.
• No photography or recording is allowed during the performance. Put your phone away to avoid distracting the actors.
• Dress code is casual to business casual; many theatergoers dress up, but comfort is fine.
• Snacks and drinks are available at the bar; you can bring them to your seat but avoid noisy packaging.

A bit of history

Written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields of the Mischief Theatre company, The Play That Goes Wrong premiered in London in 2012 before transferring to Broadway in 2017. It won the 2017 Tony Award for Best Scenic Design of a Play and has been performed worldwide.