The issue here may be that the show has turned the lobby into an interactive exhibit that encourages the audience to stand and in that area upon arrival, rather than going to their seats.
But, I saw the show last month at a crowded performance, and I had no problem being seated even though I arrived at about 15 minutes prior to curtain - and was told by theater staff to enter on 42nd Street, where there was no line. So if that is a data point to go by, I think we’re also looking at Covid staffing shortages.
