Come May, Spring is in full-swing and the Tony Awards season is here. Now that new productions are open and the Tony Awards Nominations have been announced, shows that have been nominated for a Tony are seeing an increase in demand.
What's Broadway Like in May?
May is one of the most exciting months to be in New York City for Broadway. As the Spring season hits its stride, many new plays and musicals are officially open and building buzz ahead of the Tony Awards in June. It’s a great time to catch a Tony hopeful before awards-season demand makes tickets harder to get.
Tip: May is peak Broadway buzz season. If a show is getting strong reviews or Tony attention, we suggest securing your tickets early.
With warmer weather, longer days, and NYC fully waking up for spring, May is also a popular month for visitors. Expect more energy around Times Square, more pre-theater dinner crowds, and plenty of people looking to make Broadway part of their New York trip. Check out our The Best Things to Do Around Times Square itinerary for some helpful suggestions.
May also brings Memorial Day Weekend, which often marks the unofficial start of summer travel. If you’re planning to see a show around the holiday weekend, it’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance, especially for popular musicals, family-friendly shows, and productions with Tony buzz.
Looking for ways to save? Check out Broadway.com Discounts and Deals for money saving options and last minute tickets. There’s always a collection of amazing Broadway shows offering discounts and deals to help you save money buying official Broadway tickets.
Rockefeller Center’s Road to Broadway
If you’re planning a Broadway trip in May, add Rockefeller Center’s Road to Broadway series to your itinerary. Every Thursday at noon from May 14 through June 4, The Rink hosts free live performances from Broadway favorites and new must-see musicals.
The May lineup includes shows like SIX, Just in Time, & Juliet, Death Becomes Her, Operation Mincemeat, The Great Gatsby, and Maybe Happy Ending, making it a great way to preview the season’s biggest titles before choosing what to see on Broadway. Performances are free and open to the public, with nearby dining and terrace-view options available at Rockefeller Center.
Broadway Shows Opening in May
Celebrity Autobiography — Opens May 18
Celebrity Autobiography began previews at Broadway’s Shubert Theatre on May 16, 2026 and celebrated opening night on May 18, making it the major new Broadway arrival for May. The limited summer engagement features a rotating celebrity cast reading from real star memoirs, so audiences may see a different lineup depending on the performance date. Check our Celebrity Autobiography performance schedule for dates and potential discounts and deals.
Broadway Shows Closing in May
No Broadway shows are currently listed as closing in May 2026, making it a strong month for visitors who want flexibility when planning a New York theater trip. Theatergoers can focus on long-running Broadway favorites as well as the month’s new arrival, Celebrity Autobiography, while still checking individual show schedules and ticket availability before booking.
Browse the below list of Broadway shows playing in May, and don’t miss out on seeing that show you've been meaning to catch. Enjoy the show!
