Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) remains one of the most popular reality competition shows on television. For many fans, seeing the ballroom action in person is a bucket-list experience. Whether you want to sit in the audience during a live filming in Los Angeles or catch the professional dancers on their national tour, getting tickets requires planning and quick action.
This guide provides a straightforward look at how to obtain tickets for both the television tapings and the live tour. We will cover where to find official listings, what to expect regarding costs, and the specific requirements for audience members. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing a seat at the show.
Understanding the Two Types of DWTS Tickets
Before you begin your search, it is important to distinguish between the two ways to see the show live. There are tickets for the live television tapings and tickets for the Dancing with the Stars Live tour. These are managed by different organizations and have different costs and locations.
The live television tapings take place in Los Angeles, California, during the show’s broadcast season. These tickets are generally free but are distributed through a lottery or waitlist system. Because the studio has limited seating, demand far exceeds supply, making these tickets difficult to obtain.
The Dancing with the Stars Live tour is a separate production that travels to cities across North America. These shows typically happen during the winter months after the fall season concludes. Unlike the TV tapings, tour tickets are sold at various price points through standard ticketing platforms.
How to Get Tickets for Live TV Tapings
If you want to be in the audience during a live broadcast, you must go through the official audience management company. Currently, On Camera Audiences (OCA) handles the ticketing for Dancing with the Stars. These tickets are not sold on the open market; they are given away to fans who register through the OCA website.
To start the process, visit the On Camera Audiences website and search for Dancing with the Stars. If the show is in season or about to begin, you can sign up for a ticket alert. This notification will inform you when the ticket window opens for specific filming dates.
Once tickets become available, you can apply for a specific date. If selected, you will receive a digital ticket via email. It is important to note that receiving a ticket does not always guarantee entry, as shows often overbook to ensure a full studio. Arriving early is essential for those with general admission tickets.
The Difference Between Priority and General Tickets
When applying for TV taping tickets, you may encounter different ticket tiers. Priority tickets are the most coveted because they guarantee admission as long as you arrive by the designated time. These are usually given to regular attendees or those who have waited on the list for a long time.
General tickets do not guarantee admission. They are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the studio. If you have a general ticket, you will likely need to stand in line for several hours before the filming begins to secure your spot.
Requirements for Attending a Live Taping
Attending a live television broadcast is different from going to a concert or a play. There are strict rules that audience members must follow to ensure the production runs smoothly. Failure to follow these rules may result in being turned away at the door.
- Age Restrictions: Most tapings require audience members to be at least 14 years old. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
- Dress Code: The show prefers a “polished” look. Audience members are often asked to wear semi-formal or dressy attire. Avoid wearing bright white, large logos, or busy patterns that could distract the cameras.
- Time Commitment: A live taping can take several hours. You are often required to arrive two to three hours before the show starts and stay until the end of the broadcast.
- Identification: You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID that matches the name on your ticket.
How to Buy Dancing with the Stars Live Tour Tickets
For fans who cannot travel to Los Angeles, the national tour is the best way to see the professional dancers in person. The tour features many of the pros from the show and occasionally includes celebrity guests from the most recent season. These tickets are paid and can be purchased through official retail channels.
The primary source for tour information is the official DWTS Tour website. This site lists all scheduled dates, venues, and direct links to purchase tickets. Most tour tickets are sold through major platforms like Ticketmaster or AXS, depending on the venue’s contract.
Tour tickets usually go on sale several months before the tour begins. It is helpful to follow the show’s official social media accounts or sign up for the tour’s newsletter to receive pre-sale codes. Pre-sales allow you to buy tickets before they are released to the general public.
Ticket Pricing and VIP Packages
The cost of tour tickets varies significantly based on the venue and the seat location. Standard tickets typically range from $50 to $150. Seats closer to the stage or in the center sections will be at the higher end of that range.
For fans looking for a more immersive experience, VIP packages are usually available. These packages are considerably more expensive, often ranging from $250 to over $600. Depending on the tier, a VIP package may include:
- Premium seating in the first few rows.
- A meet-and-greet session with select professional dancers.
- Professional photo opportunities with the cast.
- Exclusive tour merchandise or commemorative programs.
- Early entry into the venue.
When purchasing VIP packages, ensure you are buying from the official provider linked on the DWTS Tour website. Third-party resellers may not always be able to transfer the meet-and-greet benefits to a new buyer.
Tips for Buying Tickets Safely
Because Dancing with the Stars is a high-demand event, it is common to find tickets on secondary market websites. While these sites can be useful if a show is sold out, they come with risks. Follow these tips to ensure your purchase is secure.
Always check the official show or tour website first. This ensures you are paying the face-value price and that your ticket is legitimate. If you must use a resale site, choose reputable platforms that offer buyer guarantees, such as StubHub or SeatGeek.
Be wary of individuals selling tickets on social media or classified ad sites like Craigslist. These transactions lack protection, and it is easy for scammers to sell fake digital tickets. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.
Preparing for the Event
Once you have secured your tickets, a little preparation will help you enjoy the show. For the live tour, check the venue’s bag policy. Many modern theaters and arenas have strict size limits for bags or require clear bags for entry.
If you are attending a TV taping in Los Angeles, plan your transportation carefully. Parking at or near major studios can be expensive and time-consuming. Consider using a ride-sharing service to avoid the stress of finding a parking spot before your check-in time.
Finally, remember that photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during live TV tapings. Security will often ask you to turn off your phone or place it in a locked pouch. During the live tour, rules may be slightly more relaxed, but it is always best to check the venue’s specific policy upon arrival.
Conclusion
Securing tickets for Dancing with the Stars is a straightforward process if you know where to look. For the live TV tapings, register with On Camera Audiences and stay patient with the waitlist. For the national tour, monitor the official tour website for tour dates and pre-sale opportunities.
By following the official channels and adhering to the audience requirements, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you are watching the competition unfold in the studio or enjoying the choreography on tour, seeing the dancers live is a memorable way to experience the show. For more guides on entertainment and live events, explore our other articles on SearchAndHelp.com.