SRO is a common abbreviation seen when purchasing concert tickets, especially for highly popular shows that sell out quickly. SRO stands for “standing room only” and indicates a ticket that doesn’t come with an assigned seat. Instead, SRO ticket holders must stand in designated areas inside the venue, usually towards the back or off to the sides of the stage. Understanding what SRO means can help concertgoers determine if these tickets align with their preferences and budget.
What is an SRO ticket?
An SRO ticket grants access to the venue to stand and watch the performance, but does not include a reserved seat. The “standing room only” areas are open spaces inside the venue, sometimes withdrink rails and counter space for beverages. SRO ticket holders generally have freedom to move around the designated standing zones and find good vantage points for viewing the stage.
Venues sell SRO tickets for several reasons:
- Allow more fans to experience popular shows. SRO sections increase capacity.
- Offer a more affordable ticket option than seated tickets.
- Accommodate special configurations like festival seating at general admission shows.
- Provide standing room access to sold out seated sections.
SRO tickets arose as an equitable way to meet customer demand for big concerts. They provide an alternative experience to standard reserved seats. Fans must decide if the tradeoffs of standing are worth the ticket savings.
Pros and Cons of SRO Concert Tickets
SRO concert tickets come with certain advantages and disadvantages compared to seated tickets. Consider the key pros and cons when deciding:
Pros
- Lower price: SRO tickets are almost always cheaper than seated tickets in the same section. Fans on tight budgets can still experience the show.
- Space to move: Standing room areas offer more freedom to shift spots for better views or to get closer to the stage.
- Social experience: Standing room zones foster a communal, high energy experience compared to seated sections.
- Last minute access: Venues often release SRO tickets at the last minute, even when seated tickets are sold out.
Cons
- No seat: Standing for long periods can become tiring and uncomfortable compared to sitting.
- Obstructed views: Standing room vantage points are not guaranteed compared to numbered seats.
- Tight quarters: SRO areas often get very crowded, especially right up near the stage.
- First come, first served: Fans must arrive early to claim a good spot in the SRO section.
Weighing these key differences helps determine if SRO tickets are a good concert option for your needs. Certain fans may prioritize seating, while others won’t mind standing to pay less.
Where are SRO areas located inside venues?
Standing room only ticket holders are granted access to designated SRO zones inside the concert hall or arena. Typical locations include:
- Behind seated sections on the main floor.
- In open side sections beside lower bowl seats.
- Up in balconies or mezzanine levels.
- In back of the floor seating near sound desks.
- Off to the extreme sides of the stage along the walls.
Venues configure their SRO layouts differently based on available space. Smaller clubs may have just one standing zone, while big arenas could have multiple SRO levels. Usher staff can direct patrons with SRO tickets to the correct areas.
Some general admission festival seating concerts are entirely SRO on the floor, with all fans standing. There are no numbered seats anywhere in the general admission sections.
Why do concerts offer SRO tickets?
There are a few key reasons why concert promoters and venues offer standing room only ticketing options:
Increase venue capacity
SRO sections allow the venue to pack in more fans than seated sections alone. The concert can sell extra tickets, accommodating higher demand. More capacity means more revenue.
Meet customer budget preferences
Every fan has a different budget level for concert tickets. SRO provides an affordable option for price-conscious fans. They can experience the show without springing for more expensive reserved seats.
Accommodate quick sell-outs
Really hot shows sell out all reserved seating immediately. SRO gives the promoter a way to sell further tickets to fans even after seats are gone. No fan gets totally shut out.
Offer general admission flexibility
Some concerts are general admission, with no reserved seats anywhere. SRO-style festival seating allows fans to flow freely and cluster near the stage.
Are SRO tickets worth it?
Whether or not SRO concert tickets are “worth it” comes down to personal preferences and priorities:
- Fans who want to pay less and stand won’t mind SRO areas.
- Patrons who value guaranteed seats may view SRO as a downgrade.
- People who prioritize being close to the action may prefer SRO over pricier seats.
- Customers who want the freedom to move around see benefit in SRO.
- Fans who dread standing for long periods may pass on SRO tickets.
There’s also the venue layout to consider. Some concerts have SRO zones with clear stage views, while others tuck fans off in the rear sides.
Ultimately, deciding if SRO tickets offer enough value comes down to carefully weighing your concert experience priorities against the cheaper ticket price. It’s a case-by-case decision.
Tips for Making the Most of SRO Concert Tickets
While SRO concert tickets come with tradeoffs, using some strategies can help maximize the experience:
Arrive early
Get to the venue well before showtime to secure a good spot in the standing zone right up close to the stage. Claim that space before the crowds pack in.
Scope out the layout
If possible, check the venue’s website or YouTube for past concert footage. Look for the best SRO vantage points so you can head straight there.
Wear comfy shoes
Skip the heels or stylish leather shoes. Comfy sneakers allow you to stand for hours without foot pain. Consider insert cushions too.
Stay hydrated
Dancing and singing along takes energy. Drink plenty of water leading up to and during the show to avoid dehydration.
Take occasional breaks
If the SRO zone has space to move around, take a breather by stepping to a less crowded spot periodically. Give your feet a quick rest.
Embrace the communal vibe
Don’t be shy about striking up conversations with fellow fans around you. Shared live music energy connects people.
Conclusion
SRO or “standing room only” tickets provide cheaper concert access for fans who don’t mind giving up a reserved seat. Weigh the pros and cons carefully based on your preferences for the show experience versus ticket savings. Use tips like arriving early and wearing comfy shoes to make the most of SRO areas. With the right expectations, SRO can deliver an amazing concert night on a budget.
Pros of SRO Tickets | Cons of SRO Tickets |
---|---|
– Lower price – Space to move around – Communal experience – Last minute access |
– No guaranteed seat – Potentially obstructed views – Tight crowded spaces – First come, first served spots |
SRO Concert Tips |
---|
– Arrive early |
– Scope out venue layout |
– Wear comfy shoes |
– Stay hydrated |
– Take occasional standing breaks |
– Embrace the communal vibe |