Concert venues use a variety of methods to number the seats for events like concerts, plays, and other performances. The most common seating numbering systems are sequential numbering, section-row numbering, and seat location numbering. Factors like the venue size, layout, and type of event all play a role in determining the ideal seating numbering method.
Sequential Numbering
Sequential seat numbering assigns each seat its own unique number in sequence. Typically, the lower numbers start at the front of the venue and increase toward the back. For example, the seats might be numbered 1-20 in the front row, 21-40 in the second row, and so on throughout the venue.
With sequential numbering:
- Every seat has its own distinct number.
- Lower numbers are closest to the stage.
- Numbers increase with distance from the stage.
Sequential numbering is common in smaller music venues like clubs and theaters. It provides an easy way to find seats for guests. However, it may be impractical in larger venues with thousands of seats.
Section-Row Numbering
Section-row numbering divides the seats into sections, then assigns each row within that section a number. For example, the seats might be labeled A1-A20 for the front row of section A, A21-A40 for the second row in section A, B1-B20 for the front row of section B, and so on.
With section-row numbering:
- Seats are organized into sections.
- Rows within each section are numbered.
- Lower row numbers are closer to the stage.
Section-row numbering helps break up large venues into smaller, more manageable seating areas. It’s commonly used in larger theaters, concert halls, and arenas. This system might look like:
Section | Row |
---|---|
A | 1-20 |
A | 21-40 |
B | 1-20 |
Seat Location Numbering
Seat location numbering identifies each seat by its section, row, and seat number. This provides the most detailed identification for each seat. Seat location numbering might look like A101, A102, A103, etc. for seats in row 1 of section A or B206, B207, B208 for row 6 of section B.
With seat location numbering:
- Each seat has a unique locater.
- The first part indicates the section.
- The second part indicates the row.
- The third part indicates the seat number within the row.
Seat location numbering gives each guest an exact seat locator. This system provides the most detail which can be useful in large venues. However, it may be overkill in smaller venues with just a few sections.
Numbering Methods by Venue Size
The size and layout of the venue can impact the ideal seat numbering method:
Small Venues
Smaller venues like clubs, theaters, and amphitheaters often use sequential numbering. With just a few dozen or hundred seats, it’s easy to number them sequentially starting from the front. This provides guests with an exact seat number location.
Medium Venues
Medium-sized venues like mid-size theaters and concert halls typically use section-row numbering. There are enough seats to warrant dividing them into sections. But a simple section and row locator is still reasonably easy to manage.
Large Venues
In large venues such as arenas and stadiums, seat location numbering is very common. With thousands of seats spanning multiple levels, a more precise locator is needed. The section, row, and seat number pinpoints each guest’s location.
Numbering for Different Event Types
The type of event can also impact the ideal seat numbering system:
Reserved Seating Events
For events with reserved seating like Broadway plays, symphonies, and some concerts, seat location numbering works well. Guests have purchased a specific numbered seat. The numbering should precisely match their ticket to locate their exact seat location.
General Admission Events
At general admission events like festivals and standing room only concerts, sequential numbering or no numbering at all is typical. Guests don’t have assigned seats, so there’s no need for detailed locators on the seats themselves. Simple sequential numbering may be used in seating areas just to identify rows.
Arena Concerts
Large arena concerts frequently use section and row numbering, or a variation combining the two. For example, seats might be labeled by section, row, and end seat like A101-A116 to identify row 1 of section A. This balances the need to break up thousands of seats into manageable sections without overly complex locators.
Numbering Principles
Some general principles can help guide effective seat numbering:
- Use the simplest numbering possible while still identifying seats accurately.
- Lower numbers should be closest to the focal point (stage, field, etc). Numbers should increase with distance from that point.
- Break up large venues into sections when possible. Identify sections moving clockwise or left-to-right from the focal point.
- Keep numbering consistent from one event to the next when possible.
Following these basic principles will result in an intuitive, easy-to-understand numbering system.
Conclusion
Seat numbering at concerts and other events should balance precision with simplicity. Smaller venues can often use basic sequential numbering. Larger venues require breaking up seats into sections or more detailed locators. The goal is an intuitive system that helps guests easily find their seat. By following logical numbering principles, venues can create systems adapted for their size and optimal for their typical event types.