Unwritten Concert Rules

Your Imaginary “Friend” Up Front

A General Admission Dilemma

“General Admission” is a somewhat structured free for all that can easily go off the rails. (Source: Audioblocks.com)

The doors to the venue opened three hours ago. All the people who wanted to be up near the stage had showed up at that time, if not earlier.

That space belongs to them. They sat there for an hour while nothing happened. They cheered on the opening bands while many of us weren’t even here. And when the headliner finally makes it to the stage they will receive their reward: Proximity to a band they love and adore.

In almost all cases I’m happy to cede this treasured ground. I don’t want it. But for those who do, have at it, enjoy yourself. I’ll be somewhere in the middle of the ranks. I’ll be on the back edge of the floor and content with where I am. And that’s when it happens.

It might start with a hovering. Movement to my rear. I’ll start to feel someone trying to sidle by me then retreat. I might even get a tap on the shoulder and turn to find someone pointing to the front of the stage. They’re trying to tell me they’re “meeting someone up front”. But it’s clear they’re not. They’re lying and they suck.

General Admission requires a general understanding. It’s an unwritten rule and frankly it’s not that hard. When you arrive determines where you stand. While no one can legally…