Do you think concert tickets cost too much? What would you give up in exchange for lower prices?
Earlier this week Ticketmaster announced it would, whenever possible, post all-in prices up front, including all applicable fees and charges.
Meanwhile, Bob Dylan performed a one-off show at The Warfield in San Francisco where fans could only purchase tickets for $60 apiece on the day of the show. What’s more, only cash was accepted. No credit cards, checks or even ATM debit cards were accepted as payment for an evening with Bob.
Then there’s indie singer / songwriter Joe Pug who announced that ticket prices for his upcoming club tour will have a $10 ceiling.
But ticket prices aren’t just about additional service charges and additional fees. Tours also involve highly trained professionals, such as technicians, roadies, lighting experts and sound specialists. What’s more, mammoth audio/visual undertakings also require men and women skilled in set design, film, choreography, costuming and more. And their services don’t come cheap.
Let’s face it. In many instances when we plop down our hard-earned money for concert tickets we expect visual and sonic extravaganzas. Of course, that’s a given when you’re talking about a Britney or Madonna. But what about the bands and artists that don’t employ dancers or multiple costume changes yet still bring plenty of eye candy to the stage?
Yes, U2 fans, we’re looking at you. The current U2 tour, with its gigantic stage and special effects, costs a small fortune to produce. Would you sacrifice the visual for a cheaper ticket?
But this isn’t just about U2. Would you buy a ticket for KISS, Korn, or AC/DC sans lights, lasers and pyro? Would you be willing to settle for a little less flash if it meant a little more cash in your pocket? Just drop your comments in our rather low-tech discussion thread below.