I am a fan of the orchestra. The closer the better. But some would prefer further back, or spending less money. If you wait for TKTS, you aren't guaranteed tickets. Les Miz is my favorite show, and I've sat in the last row of the orchestra, in the middle of the orchestra, and in the mezz on the West End. I would go for the orchestra, especially since this is your first Broadway show experience!
Ok so maybe I'll go ahead and grab the deal on travelzoo and be sure we get tickets ahead of time!