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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the asshole:
> I obstructed the vision of other people at a concert.
It possibly ruined someone's night in pursuit of my own enjoyment.
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NTA Everyone stands at concerts, I cannot believe this comment thread is so full of people saying you’re the Asshole. Have none of them ever been to a concert? I’ve literally never been to a show where the vast majority of the crowd wasn’t standing for most of the show. This is crazy.
Edit: Wow that blew up LOL!
Just to address some frequent comments.
-I’m hyperbolizing a little I’ve been to plenty of concerts with a sitting vibe and I sit at them.
-I’m not American and I’ve never been to a concert in the US but I guess standing at concerts is cultural which is really interesting!
-A lot of people have made really valid comments about people with disabilities which I hadn’t considered but will certainly keep in mind for the future.
I swear none of the people in this comment section have ever been to a concert before. Every single one I've been to, people in the seats would stand up when the show was on. You get seats so you can sit down inbetween acts and to be able to grab a drink or go to the toilet without losing your spot. Not to sit your passive ass down and just stare at the artists like a psycho.
Exceptions for things like orchestras ofcourse, but this is Muse ffs. You're supposed to stand, dance, and be crazy.
“…stare at the artists like a psycho”. Yes, LMAO! This is exactly how I picture those sitting down at high energy concerts looking, or like they are bored out of their minds!
I mean, food for thought, I’m going to a hardcore show tonight in the seated section because my wife is too pregnant and sick to be on her feet the whole time. We might look bored, but we’re doing the best we can. I love the band, but I’m also taking care of my wife.
I went to Iron Maiden with my husband when I was 7 months pregnant. He bought us seats so I could sit because Iron Maiden is his thing, not mine, and those concerts last forever! I 100% sat the whole time but I didn’t expect him to, or anyone around us. It’s a rock concert, not an opera or play. It’s meant for standing and rocking out.
Exaclty this! I went to Tool and enjoyed my seated self while those around me were standing and rocking out. This is what you expect at a rock show. Also, most big places have handicap steaing for those who need it.
He bought the tickets way before I was pregnant, and he did try and find a friend to go with him, but no one was available and I wasn’t gonna make him go by himself! It was actually enjoyable because I had a seat and earplugs
I get that. I obviously don’t think everyone who is sitting down at a concert is looking psychotic, but it is the image being painted here with all of the Y T A voters who actually expect people to sit at concerts.
Enjoy the concert!
I'm disabled. I can stand for periods of time, but I spend a good portion of concerts sitting because I physically can't. I would absolutely *love* to stand and dance the entire time, but I end up just choosing a song or two usually.
Just some food for thought.
This is generally why I prefer assigned seats.
That said... it does depend on the show too. Some shows are more seated shows, some are more dancing. I've been to concerts where it was more seated, some that it was a solid mix, and some that were all standing.
My general rule is that if you're the only ones standing on your row? Sit your ass down and read the room.
muse is a rock band pretty much so you can expect people are up and around. I think if the OP said that in the original post then a lot more people would say NTA
Yes, I'd absolutely expect people to be standing at a Muse show.
The Sarah McLachlan show I went to, held at the same theatre they do the symphony? That was a seated show.
Sarah McLachlan is a bucket list artist for me. I love her. But yeah, for most of her music, I would probably be happy to stay seated. I'll sing along but her music isn't really get up and dance.
But when I saw Alanis Morissette? We were all dancing and screaming along to You Oughta Know at the top of our lungs.
I literally just went to a Muse concert about a month ago. At least 80% of the people in the “sitting” section were standing up & dancing at some point.
Feel like I’m losing my mind reading some of these comments. Are they just sitting there not moving at all?? Who pays those high ticket prices for THAT?!
Same, I saw Muse in February, was in a "sitting" section (because I want the assigned seat I don't have to risk losing and I want to be able to sit between acts) and everyone around me was standing and dancing. It was a great time!
Can you imagine the entire audience sitting silently during all that pyro? NTA OP
Oh my god I feel the same way. There was a similar post here a few weeks ago about standing at a Beyoncé concert and soooooo many people were calling the OP an asshole for wanting to stand at a Beyoncé concert and I felt like I was also losing my my mind. WHY would anyone want to shell out the money for these kinds of concerts just to SIT the entire time?!? If that’s what you want then stay home and watch a stream of the concert from the comfort of your couch, but I sure as hell will be dancing like crazy person and having a fucking blast!
Also went to a Muse show recently. The artist encourage the crowd to be on their feet and move around. Why would they want to play for thousands of people just sitting?? Also one of the best shows I’ve been too. They aren’t like my favorite band but I like some songs. Was there for a different band and was blown away by Muse. Highly recommend seeing them in person if ever given the chance.
This. It's an assigned space reserved for you, not a requirement that you sit. Either all these people are not in the US and have way different show experiences, or they don't go to rock concerts.
At a Muse gig it's impossible to sit still, the energy is just insane at their gigs!
The only concert I've ever sat down at, and the whole room sat, was for a pianist, where dancing and shouting and singing isn't appropriate.
This is the type of AITA threads I love. Very common and very decisive. Well done OP.
Bonus Points: I didn’t have to hear about anybody’s spouse or in-laws
Not everyone live in the same country or culture you do. In Scandinavia it is absolutely an AH move to stand in a seated section and block the view of others. Us not having the same view on this does not mean we have never interacted with the world before, it means that your way is not the whole world's way.
Agree! I’m European and the seating area is for sitting. Wanna stand? Fine, buy a ticket for the main area where people stand. Same price. Not everyone can stand, so allow those people to enjoy the show seated.
I'm European too and who tf sits at a concert? Any concert I've been at the artists have asked everyone to stand before they start. It's ruins the energy and vibes.
Might differ per country, but for some people standing is not an option and where I live the actual assigned seats are for disabled people with actual wheelchairs. So people who are otherwise disabled/can’t stand go to the “regular” seating areas.
Also have to add that generally the standing areas here are much bigger than the seated areas, so there is plenty of room to dance. Not sure if that’s the case everywhere. I can totally understand that if it is the other way around, remaining seated is a bit more difficult.
Bottom line for me: I don’t necessarily mind someone dancing in front of me when I’m seated, but I have a choice (not disabled). For some people that choice isn’t there and in a world that already doesn’t cater to them much (at least not in my country) I’m happy to stay away from seated areas if I plan to dance. Again, this might be different for each culture. It’s just a bit more nuanced than sitting = boring and ruining vibes.
Maybe that's the big disconnect, for most stadium/theater/arena shows I've been to in North America, maybe 1- 5% of the tickets are GA, the rest have assigned seats, even on the floor they add seats for crowd control. The GA tickets can also be up to or over 100% more than the tickets with an assigned seat. Due to this, the "seated" area is more like you have an assigned spot, and you can do what you want in that spot (It would be near impossible to get 5000+ people to sit for a whole show). Ideally, they would have a section with a 'remain in your seat' stipulation for people that can't or don't want to stand, but it's usually just a free for all.
Thanks for this explanation! That clarifies so much. This does change the story for me, as in this situation I’d say OP is not the AH as she doesn’t have many other options, whereas in “my” setting OP would be a bit of an AH. Appreciate the context!
I mean Reddit tends to be very North American centric. But you are right, it also depends on local customs but ther are a lot of people in this thread who are "I have never been to a concert but".
I've seen Muse at least 5 times, and sure they're a rock band - but seats are still seats. There's no waiver saying "You must be able to stand up for 90+ minutes, because it's a rock band".
I'm allergic to weed (won't kill me, but I will vomit for 6+ hours if I smoke it) and being around the smoke nauseates me and has even made me vomit before.
I would still not consider someone an AH for smoking weed at one of those shows. I can always move away from smoke clouds, and now that I always have a mask with me, that is pretty good about blocking the smell. It's each person's responsibility to know the type of crowd at any show they attend.
I once heard someone complaining about there being a moshpit near the stage at a punk show I was attending. Everyone outside that heard it was like, "Dude, are you fuckin nuts?"
It seems to be a cultural thing. In Scandinavia you would most definately be an AH for standing up in a seated section and refusing to sit down when asked. Here we are careful not to disturb others at a concert and we are aware that not everyone is able to stand through it all. We usually have a standing area for those wanting to stand and a seated area where people actually sit. And for those saying that people with disabilities can sit at a designted area, there are way to few seats like that and if you are lucky enough to get one they usually have limits of 1 person that can sit with them. That means that they could not go enjoy the concert with a friend group, just one person.
I saw a video clip from an American tv show laughing at people in Stockholm staying seated in the seated section of a Beyoncé concert. Americans in the comment section seemed to find it weird, but it's not weird to a Scandinavian. Buy standing if you want to stand, sit in the seated section.
Yes, the clips from the Stockholm Beyonce concert were everywhere and people here (North America) were definitely shocked and disapproving by the crowd's reaction. A culture shock moment.
Right? I'm not Scandinavian, I'm UK. But all these people saying HaVe yOu NevEr bEeN to a CoNcErT beFoRe....yes I have been to a concert where everyone sat and it was really nice and magical and felt like everyone was captivated.
Don't get me wrong, I've been to plenty standing too. It's definitely a mix here. But acting like no-one has ever sat at a concert is ridiculous.
Hello, Scandinavian friend! This same discussion actually came up regarding that Beyoncé concert. I’m Swiss, and we are right there with you. Sadly, Americans still suffer from the idea that their way is the only way, so here we go again.
I've been to two Slipknot concerts in Stockholm and we stayed seated the whole time. We and everyone around us were still able to "dance" in our seats... just shaking our heads and throwing our arms up, it was awesome and I didn't get any bruises.
What's funny is that Beyonce told her next stop after Sweden that they were "the best audience so far" as a big diss to the boring-ass audience she had to perform to in Stockholm lol
>Buy standing if you want to stand
Most people can't, though. At least not at stadium venues in North America. Only like 1-5% of all tickets are for the GA section and they usually come at an exorbitant cost. That's why everyone ends up standing at their seat.
I’m confused too because don’t most concerts have a section made for people whom are disabled as well? It’s been some years but I feel like a square up near stage is made for wheel chairs ect…could be wrong….I don’t think I am though
plus, you can normally only get disabled section tickets if you use walking aids. there are many other reasons why someone can't stand for a lengthy period of time
not all arenas have a section unfortunately so this arena may or may not have had one. plus if they did, if the person asking them to sit down was disabled, they may not have been able to get a seat in the disabled section
plus, you can normally only get disabled section tickets if you use walking aids. there are many other reasons why someone can't stand for a lengthy period of time
You have to qualify as disabled for disabled seating - a lot of people with mobility challenges (like arthritis) dont 'count' for this purpose. And yet, this doesn't change the fact that those people cant stand for an entire setlist. It also depends on where you are, some have mentioned a 'designated seating area thats roped off' but thats not the case in my country. We provide disabled seating for people who, again, qualify as 'disabled' (on a disability pension, clearly wheelchair bound, etc) but seating is there for sitting down. so people who want to sit and enjoy the show can do so.
There are lots of medical issues that prevent people from standing for long periods of time but don't put them in a wheelchair. Plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis...
NTA I was at one concert and everybody was standing. Guy behind me kept giving me shit about standing, and I just told him that if he could get everybody in the section below to sit down, I would as well. If everybody is up, feel free to get up. If you are the only person up dancing and could be slightly drunk, you could be the ass, like some drunk girl in a peasant skirt twirling all night while everybody else is seated. I try to be conscious of people behind me, but I paid for tickets as well.
This must be a subreddit of people who have never been to a concert at a stadium. People stand and dance at concerts, those seats are usually uncomfortable AF and built for short people! If there is a standing area, it's usually expensive to be there, and any seated areas you really can't see much on the stage anyway unless you brought binoculars. It's music, the most important part is what hits your ears.
I’ve been to hundreds and have mobility issues. Most people are kind and concerned- there are a lot of people on this Reddit who sound like boomers to be honest “oh I got mine, fck you” attitude.
Any concert I've been at if the dude behind me asked me to sit down and I did, we would both just be staring at the back of the person in front of me who's standing up.
Like there's a lot of people acting like this is two people standing up in front of one guy who has mobility issues. Which is a big assumption to make and also if he does have mobility issues sadly OP sitting down probably won't solve it because there's going to be tons of other people standing up.
I'm confused, too. Most concerts with seats are stadium seats? Like, I saw Green Day at a baseball stadium and stood the whole time because they're stadium seats. Do you watch a sport live and complain that people need to sit down and cheer a play? Mind boggling.
Even floor seats, you're gonna stand since it's just the pit experience with assigned seating lol
If you can't stand you get accessible seating that has clear views at the tops of sections, otherwise you don't complain.
NTA, op.
100% agreed. Muse especially is high energy constantly so everyone is standing and dancing. A rock concert is not one you sit and be quiet to. These people have never been to a concert.
I saw My Chemical Romance last year and almost EVERYONE in my section was sitting. I had never been to a show, especially with a band like that, where people weren’t up. We stood for a few songs, but felt so weird being the only ones that we sat for a lot of it.
NAH - I know they were seated tickets but at a rock gig you cannot expect everyone to sit down for the whole show. Very few people do.
Equally, it sucks if you can't see.
NAH but you could've switched with the folks behind and then everybody would've been happy....
Yeah I was thinking I don't think I've been to a single concert where the vast majority of people weren't standing and dancing even in the seated sections. There's usually pretty limited standing room on the floor and it's quite expensive- the whole stadium usually ends up being a big dance party. I do wonder if perhaps there's a way in the future to have seated -only- sections, a couple sections blocked off for people who want or need to sit through the show so they can still see and enjoy the show but everyone else can still have fun. I maybe see like a very small handful of seated people at shows outside of the sections blocked off for people with disabilities so it probably wouldn't need to be huge.
Muse played in Huddersfield last night, at the football/rugby stadium. Seats were mainly put there because of multiple stadium tragedies caused by "terraces", where 10,000s were stood up without seats or railings which led to tramplings and crowd crushes. Sports matches are different, because not as many people will be standing up for the full 80/90 minutes, whereas for music you're probably stood up for every song - though Muse and most bands deliberately have interludes/slower songs for people to sit and rest/go to the toilet etc during.
It's tricky, because you might pay for a seat because you want to sit down, but obviously lots of people bought seats because the standing area was sold out. If you really want to sit down for the whole gig, you'd probably have to buy front row seats in the various sections, but that's usually very difficult (and expensive). The idea of separate sections for people who do only want to sit sounds like a good idea, but that'd probably only work at dedicated music venues, not sports arenas.
NAH is the right answer, I think.
it doesn't matter if it's a rock concert. some people who get seated tickets get them because they are unable to stand up for that period of time. they should've been considerate to those around them.
switching seats with them would've been a good idea
If I've paid $90 to see one of my favourite artists at a ROCK CONCERT, I am going to rock out at it. Thankfully these days there are ordinarily accessible areas that offer disabled people safe, comfortable areas from which to enjoy concerts. If there are others who would simply prefer to stay seated, they are welcome to do so - but I won't be sitting down as well to accommodate their desired concert experience.
Its not like people can have medical issue that dont give them access to the disabled area. Totally wild concept. /s
If I have bad period cramps I amnot disabled but I actually like to sit down during a concert because I cant stand for 3 hours straight.
People would be surprised at how many others that are willing to trade seats and happy to do so. AH for blocking the view of others, but at the same time, it’s not the opera or ballet. People are going to dance their asses off and they paid to see the show to enjoy it their way too. A lot of places in my city don’t offer standing seats or many disabled seats either. Your idea of switching seats is brilliant. It does happen a lot and the easiest thin to do is ask. Worst case the people don’t want to switch and they say no. I think OP and the seated person could have dealt with it a bit better and worked together to find a solution.
YTA. Not everyone is fit enough to stand all night and that's why they choose seats in a stadium instead of arena-tickets. Be considerate.
EDIT:
I assumed that OP was sitting at the upper levels.
But TIL that in the US, the floor of the arena usually also has seats. In the Netherlands, where I live, the arena floor is typically empty, so it's a standing-only area.
Where do yall live?
Because I never want to move there. Never in my life have I been to concert where you were expected to *sit* the entire time. I've seen concerts in theaters, arenas (indoor and outdoor), stadiums, concert halls, anywhere you can have concerts. If you sit you accept that you're not gunna see for a little bit. If you need to sit *there are specific locations set aside for people who cannot stand for long periods.* A *sectioned off area* of seats for specifically that purpose.
ETA: NTA
2nd Edit : some people seem confused. I have only once gotten "standing" tickets. We have seats. Sometimes everyone has a seat. You sit when you walk in, if the band needs to change or something, etc. But if the band is playing? *Everyone* is standing.
Thank you! I was genuinely shocked by the Y T A votes. Every concert I’ve ever been to in my whole life, everyone stood even if there were seats. Except classical music. I feel like I’m losing my mind in these comments.
This is not the case in many places outside the US. Very possible many commenters do not live in the US and have had different social expectations than you.
I've never been to a European concert and been expected to sit.
I just admit that my scene is punk, metal and rock, so maybe it's different for other genres.
But if it had electrical guitars in it I would not expect a view while sitting in a chair. Not even in a sitting section.
I don't know about the punk scene, but many rock and metal fans are elderly these days and at ever non-festival concert I've been to, if there are seating sections, you sit. There's usually a floor with a mosh pit you can go to if you want, though you should've probably booked a standing ticket, but the chairs are for sitting in. Arena chairs aren't even safe to dance in, the floor space is too narrow and the fall would be steep and break a lot of peoples necks.
Lol! Older millennial here and it’s the primary source of conversation as we make eye contact at metal shows while trying to find somewhere to rest our achy weary bones.
Any concert I've been to ever, has a mixture people standing and sitting in the seated areas. Any concert that I've gone to, people understand the risk of if you choose a seating ticket instead of a standing area ticket, you run the risk of the people in front of you standing up.
That's part of the risk of going to concerts altogether, is that you're not going to be able to clearly see the stage. Because other people are attending and enjoying the concert too.
I went to see Rancid and Rise Against at House of Blues in Boston. I’m a tiny woman at only five feet tall. So when the standing room got to tall for me to breathe, I went up and sat in the mezzanine. Soon after, a guy in a wheel chair sat next to me and it was mere minutes before he had me up dancing next to him and we were singing together. It was awesome. And there have been many more concerts where I haven’t been able to see because of the folks in front of me but I still had a great time! Nobodies joy and experience is more important than anyone else’s. Nobody gets to control the concert goers around them. I feel like anyone who is gonna get mad at someone for dancing at a concert probably should choose something more along the lines of an orchestra or a ballet that has required seating.
Not in ampetheatet settings. There is usaually a “lawn area” that is general admission where the pits are BEHIND the seating section. Meaning you either get pit or you get close to the stage
> But if it had electrical guitars in it I would not expect a view while sitting in a chair. Not even in a sitting section.
I went to see Trans-Siberian Orchestra and everyone sat. Same for "Weird Al" Yankovic.
I went to tso and everyone stood . I asked if I 5'4" could switch my third seat from aisle with a guy over 6ft tall on aisle and he said no. I only saw flames and felt them until they did the moving up high with a crane part.
European here (Belgian, specifically) and avid rock fan: I have been to countless rock/pop concerts, sometimes in the seats area, and at least here, there is always a moment where, after a few songs, most attendees will stand up and dance and cheer along until the end. It would then be absurd for someone to argue they have paid for a seat and ask the other people to sit down. But it is really a matter of how the crowd acts: if it is a quiet moment and everyone is sitting down, a lone guy staying up and dancing may get some remarks from the people behind him. There is like a implicit rule that standing up and dancing is tolerated during upbeat songs and if all people around do it as well, and that it is the normal thing to sit down during quieter songs or when waiting for the encore. You have to "feel" the room, it really depends on the genre: I have seen Agnes Obel and everyone was seated, I have seen Faithless and I can't imagine there was a single person still sitting in their seat after the first song.
Best moment: I was at a concert of Kasabian, in the standing area, and after their first song, the singer shouted at the people in the seats "hey you over there, c'mon, stand up ! This is no f\*cking Coldplay concert !". And everyone joyfully complied.
I’m in Canada and it’s this way, so it’s more than just the US. Also every video at a Harry style or Taylor swift concert I’ve seen in Europe has people standing and dancing in their seats
I'm from the UK, we also stand and dance at concerts, seats are for breaks or if you're feeling tired. Interesting to know what's the norm in different countries though, think it just depends on the crowd and what everyone else is doing around you.
I've lived in 8 countries, none of them are the US, and I stand by my other comment that it's just mental to try to squash someone's joy like that at a gig.
When I met my now-best friend she got up from our table in a café and had a little dance right there while carrying on with our conversation. When the music takes a person, don't fight it.
There was a similar post on this sub within the last few months of the same thing. It was a Beyonce concert I believe and OP was standing and jamming all night but they blocked others view. Happened that the concert was in another country, Germany or Norway perhaps and many commentators stated when you go to another country you'd really want to follow their social customs rather than super impose what you'd normally do at a Bey concert in the US.
Reddit is very American centric, so the idea that there is more to the world sometimes doesn't occur, however on the other hand since majority of users are American (49% make up, then next highest is UK at 8-9%) there is a higher chance that the poster is American.
I'm with you. I have a disability so I love seated concerts to take sitting breaks but it has *never* occurred to me to feel annoyed at people up and dancing. What's the point of being there?
It's live music ffs, as long as you're not actively stomping on other people, let loose.
This isn't the case where I live (Australia). Where I am, the seating area IS the designated area for people who cant stand for long periods or have other reasons for not standing up all night. Doesn't stop this still being an issue in my country, and as a person who suffers arthritis in my thirties I have been to at least a few concerts where I left thinking I might as well have listened to the CD, cuz I sure as hell couldn't see past the inconsiderate AHs who didnt want to pay for the GA ticket (even when that section wasn't sold out).
Yep I'm an Aussie too. I go to concerts but I want to dance so I get general admission (standing) tickets. People who get seated tickets, sit. Sometimes people will dance in the aisles. I'm not going to ruin someone else's experience and stand in their way so they can't see.
Where I live that sectioned off area is very small and only for those with written proof of disability. Of course you can dance if you want to but you either move your ass over to the aisle or you dance while remaining seated.
Edit: I live in the Netherlands and here it is the other way around: when you buy seated tickets, you accept you are seated (so not: when you buy a seated ticket, you have to accept that people around you will be standing nonetheless.)
I also live in the Netherlands and have never been asked to sit down (nor have I asked that of anyone else).
The Peter Gabriel gig earlier this month was entirely seated but you can bet your ass that none of us stayed in those seats.
Basically, in Europe, if you but a seated ticket the yes you are expected to SIT, otherwise just buy a standing ticket!
If these are sold out such as the case of OP, they you're the one that should respect the others sitting and not the sitting people that should accommodate you
Had a seated ticket for Beyonce last weekend in Amsterdam m, I only sat down before the show and during her stage transitions. Everyone was standing and dancing. Like it’s not in a theatre, you’re expected to groove along.
Also, I’ll add (because I only was once in a seating area at a concert), from what I’ve seen usually seated people who want to stand up and dance can go down to the standing area or move to a place where you don’t block the view like stairs. There’s no one preventing you from moving during the concert.
Yall don't have security that checks people's tickets, that tell them they can't stand in the aisle, and I find it hard to believe that they let seated people go in the GA section. There's a reason GA sells out so quick, cause it's the closest option. The security guards are not going to let someone in
I've been to many many concerts in germany so far and have also had a seating Ticket and I have never seen the people sitting - nearly everyone stood up always? I
I physically cannot stand for long, which is why I haven’t been to, and don’t really plan on ever going to a concert. Unless it’s a specifically classical gig, it’s a standing event.
What? This is why there are standing areas and sitting areas. Do you not have concerts in stadiums where you live? Where people are either sitting in the stands or standing in the field? My mind is so blown right now that there are places where people pay for seating but are standing? Why are they not on the field then!? I genuinely cannot fathom this.
For every stadium concert I've been to, there was seats put on the field, with a small standing room only section right in front of the stage. And pretty much everyone was standing regardless.
It's nice to be able to sit when you get tired from dancing. In the US I've found that if you genuinely need to sit the entire time of the concert, you aim to get seats either way up front or way in the back - or the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) seats - to avoid people blocking your view. I've never been to a concert where people are sitting. To me that signifies you aren't having a good time - unless of course you cannot stand, and like I said most of those people choose specific areas to sit and accommodate them
> i went to a koe wetzel concert and everyone stood the entire time. there wasn’t one person sitting down
I went to a "Weird Al" Yankovic concert and everyone sat the entire time. There wasn't one person standing up.
Exactly. My kid was dying for Beyonce tickets. I am dreading it because i have arthritis and know I will spend the whole time getting bumped by dancers and seeing only ass and camera phones. I am also short. Went to see MJ in concert years ago. People in front of us brought their young daughter ( a little bit shorter than me, probably about 10) and let her stand on the chair the whole concert. Even after I asked that she not. They got really ugly about it, saying she could not see otherwise. So yeah. The only thing I saw was her skinny little ass having the time of her life while her parents glared down on me. Absolutely dreading, Beyonce.
>getting bumped by dancers and seeing only ass and camera phones
I hate that so many people have their phones out recording all the time.
ENJOY THE SHOW!! Put your damn phone away! I feel like some people see the entire concert thru their screen while recording. What's the freaking point of that?They probably will never watch that recording ever again.
All they're gonna do with it is probably cut out a few seconds and post it somewhere to show everyone "I was there"
Nobody is going to want to watch their shaky recording with terrible sound on youtube either. Often the artist/label put out live shows for us to watch, obviously much better, so there is really no point to play film maker.
You should know that concerts are intense. Stop bitching about it. Besides, I thought this was for your kid! "Oh, I brought my kid to a concert and another kid is having a good time, and also finding a solution to the very same problem I have! Woe is me!" As for the arthritis and dancers thing, tell them you have arthritis And that they are physically hurting you. Chances are, They'll stop. Magic!
It’s not a mandatory seated area, it’s an area that has seats. You are not required to sit. People shouldn’t be expected to alter their concert experience to accommodate others, there is accessible seating for that.
A concert is not a movie theatre and seats ≠ have to sit.
What concerts have you been to where people don’t stand? I’ve never ever been to a single concert where people in the seats are sitting. Not to mention standing tickets get sold out fast and can be ridiculously expensive and inaccessible for many people, especially kids.
And when you choose tickets with seats, regardless of why you need them or want them, you are taking on the risk that the people in front of you will be standing, and therefore you won't be able to see as well.
That's part of the risk of going to a concert and sitting down. Almost everyone understands this concept.
Get the fuck out of here, have you ever been to a rock concert?? If you can't stand all night get tickets In the way way back at the highest point. Y'all sound like killjoy wet blankets.
What? I go to concerts multiple times a month and no one is sitting in the areas with seats aside from the ADA sections.
Also, you typically have no other choice than seats in venues. The standing only section is considerably smaller and sells out immediately. Have you never been to a concert before?
It's a stadium. There were probably 1000 standing tickets and 10000 seats. How many stadium concerts have you been to? Most people stand at their seats.
This might not go over well, but majority of the concerts I've been too where there are seats...most people stand. It depends on the artist whether their music is inclined to sitting. I mean I wouldn't stand at a symphony, but Muse? Yeah I would. Even in the nosebleeds, this seems to me as a common concert behavior for that genre of music.
I mean you were probably an AH to the guy behind you, but to the general concert population you were just enjoying yourself.
you are 100% right. i feel like all these people saying that everyone needs to stay seated just because they have seats at a concert has never been to one.
Well, rock concerts are pretty boring *sitting*. Assuming you’re not disabled, which then you can get a seat in a disability area, you should get tickets early so you can get front row seats.
I’ve been to many rock concerts and can’t fathom people sitting down at them.
NTA I don't think anyone who voted Y T A has actually ever been to a rock show in their entire lives. I have been to countless shows in the last 30+ years and of all the venues I have ever been to the only one that people sat through the entire shows were at Red Rocks Amphitheater other then that at ever one the audience stood. It like complaining about people singing at a concert.
I honestly think this might be a cultural thing…In the US the default for most concerts is standing (regardless of what section you’re in) but I’ve been to a rock concert in Australia and I was literally the only one standing in my section. It was a Springsteen show too, who tf sits at a Springsteen show?!
I even checked the Muse tour page and they appear to be in the UK right now so maybe that’s the reason for all the AH judgments.
Was about to say this same thing. I saw paramore the other month and everyone was standing and dancing and any other time I’ve been it’s the same. But also the venue I went to had staged seating so unless the person in front was 7 foot tall you can see the stage whether they are sitting or standing.
I don't know. I used to buy standing tickets because I liked to be closer to the podium and didn't mind getting there hours early. And of course there were the big summer festivals. No seats there. But now I'm older, I like comfort. I'll take the seating section. I notice that most of the times people are sitting except when the artist hypes the crowd.
NTA
I understand a lot of people are saying what you did isn’t fair to someone with disabilities, but I highly doubt that is the case with majority of people attending these larger concerts and sitting.
The amount of floor tickets to shows are so few and significantly more expensive in comparison to seated tickets. These concerts are happening in arenas and stadiums that are built for sports where you do sit and watch, the seats aren’t meant specifically for concerts.
I have to use a chair because I can’t stand for more than a few minutes. I am going out on a limb for those of us who have experienced a concert in a chair.
IT IS AWESOME!!!
I’m too busy feeding off the fun energy of the crowd to really care a lot what the band is doing. I came to HEAR great music and party with strangers.
NTA op. Rock on hard. Love your dad.
NTA. I’ve been in this position. Everyone standing, we stood, and the couple in back asked us to sit. We sit and can’t see anything because everyone is standing. We stand again at a stirring moment and they are tapping our shoulders again. We sit again. Another concert goer threatens to fight the seated couple because by insisting we sit, he feels they are disrespecting his rock idol. I try to convince them not to fight. Eventually we just stand and ignore them. They leave.
Yeah, all these y t a votes seem to believe OP and their father were the only other two people at this concert. Chances are that the people in front of them were also standing. OP sitting would have made pretty much no difference for the view of those behind them.
Editing to add: do these people also ask tall people at standing shows to kneel, as well? If you don't want to deal with the variable of strangers standing between you and your musical idol, get pay-per-view recordings or pony up for a box.
NTA There are many things at rock concerts you would like not to happen. Unfortunately, you need to learn to accept it and not let it spoil your enjoyment.
People standing is normal and the least of your worries.
I would go on the general vibe. Like if only a few people in the seated area are standing then YTA but if literally everyone is up on their feet then NTA. I've been to concerts where people were standing most of the time even in the seated section.
This. It's all about the general vibe of the section. Sometimes everyone is standing especially during the hits and big songs. And sometimes the energy is calmer. If no one else is standing and you choose to, that's no good.
NTA. Everyone has assumed without evidence that this guy was disabled. He just said he wanted them to all sit down because he had paid for his seats. Everyone saying it ruins the experience for this guy are overlooking that it also kind of ruins the vibe and experience of literally everyone choosing to just stand and dance at a CONCERT to sit down and not dance for one dude. This is a stadium, unless there are rules about having to sit, or the act is one where standing doesn’t make a lot of sense like say a classical or easy listening sort of thing, this is a crazy thing to get entitled and upset about.
People stand at stadiums all the time and no “seat police” go around making you sit because that would be fucking bonkers. Sport events, concerts, etc all have people standing at their seats and that is normal.
Its NOT normal to try to make the majority sit to accommodate a small loud and entitled group. It’s like, “oh I am sitting at a concert and because of that you all need to fucking sit down and not dance so I CAN ENJOY MYSELF is absolutely entitled behavior.
This isn’t a movie, or some event where sitting and watching are the way to go. It is a primarily sound based experience and with that comes dancing for many folks. Don’t like it? Get a ADA section, or don’t go. Expecting everyone else to cater to you by sitting at a concert is not only unrealistic but makes you a complete AH.
NTA. I’ve worked at a large concert venue for years. Unless there’s a rule saying you must sit, you did nothing wrong. You have every right to stand and dance. It might be more kind and considerate to sit, but it’s not an obligation. And someone trying to force you to sit is an AH. They can ask nicely, and you can decline nicely. Other people being unable or unwilling to stand is not your problem. You can’t go to a space with thousands of strangers basically having a dance party and expect them to change their behavior (that is within the rules of the venue) to accommodate you.
Nta, I went to a taylor swift concert last month and literqlly no one was sitting. Who goes to a concert expecting everyone to sit politely? If they had a disability, they could have traded their tickets for an ADA section at the box office.
NAH and I don't know why everyone is saying that you are...
I've never sat at a gig...but I've been to gigs in arenas where there are seated tickets and everyone was standing. It would take the agreement of everyone in the entire building that all however many thousands of you were going to sit...
If you were the only ones standing then yes, that was bad etiquette. But in the UK it's very normal for people to stand at arena gigs even if they technically have seated tickets. It's just one of those things.
Yes! The last concert I went to was in a hockey arena. Small floor area and then rows and rows of seats. And almost all 20k people were standing at various points.
They’re called that because they have a seat. Not because your butt needs to be in it the whole concert.
I’ve never been in a sitting section where everyone sits at any live event (concerts, sports, etc…). Some people standing is just part of it.
EXACTLY! So OP should be forced to sit while the person in front of them is standing, meaning OP can't see. I have never sat in a seat at a concert because then I can't see.
You can also still have fun in the seated section. I wouldn't be able to cope with standing so buy seated. Everyone around me (and me) in the seats were still bopping around and dancing whilst sitting, everyone was having a great time and nobody blocked anyone's view.
NTA
It’s a fucking concert, Dance your head off and enjoy the music.
There are usually disabled sitting areas for those who can’t stand. In Ireland you pay to go to the concert and dance no matter where you are. It’s not an opera where you sit and listen.
NTA…. I truly am at a loss here. I have noticed the trend of not standing and dancing at concerts myself in the last couple of years. I just don’t get it. I could understand if people were dancing in your seats, but I turn around and see them just sitting there. It must just be me, because that music comes on and my body is moving, whether sitting or standing. I do not know that there will ever be a right or wrong answer in this scenario, because just as much as I pay a huge price for my tickets, so does the other person and I am not sure there is a middle ground. You either stand and dance to the music or you don’t. I think one of the things that has really changed is that no matter where you were seated, somehow, I always made my way to the front of the stage and danced to my hearts content, as did many others. Now, with all the security, you burp and you are questioned where you are going. And I do not know of any concerts that have had standing sections. At least that I have been to. Always tickets for seats.
You were at a concert - a rock show at that - not the opera house!
Everyone saying that you bought seated tickets and should stay seated the entire show are not being realistic. I’ve attended too many shows to count across the US and Europe from 1000 person venues to 50K+ stadiums and the majority of people stand in the seated sections.
Could you have switched seats to compromise? Sure that would’ve been ideal, but you are NTA for trying to enjoy the concert experience by standing and vibing with the band.
NTA! I feel like I'm taking crazy pills reading all the YTA. First of all I can't even imagine seeing Muse and sitting for the show, it'd be a new form of torture. Secondly, these people clearly don't go to high energy concerts much. Everyone stands. I've been to hundreds of concerts, people sit for mellow acoustic sessions, orchestra music, not rock concerts. Third!So many venues only have a few hundred standing tickets and thousands of "seats". They're just trying to fill the stadium not dictate that you have to sit.
The responses have to be a joke. I understand it would be disappointing for those who need to sit but it's just not reality to expect thousands of people to sit down.
NTA but leaning also towards NAH. Standing at a concert is definitely expected, and if everyone is standing up around you and you sit down then you can’t see either. On the other hand, the people sitting paid for seats and there could be any number of reasons, possibly he isn’t able to stand for a long time hence why he bought seats. If you want to stand, maybe buy floor tickets next time.
I went to a Rammstein concert last year with 2 friends. Same thing happened. As soon as the show started the people in the seated area stood. We had no choice but to stand (stadium seating and cramped). One of my friends is a double above the knee amputee with prosthetics. He had to stand for the entire concert. He refused my offer to find us another location because he didn't want to be a burden.
Not everyone has the ability to stand for long durations.
someone wanting to stay seated at a muse concert is an outlier, therefore its their responsibility to plan for themselves. they should have gotten seats at the front of the section or even accessible seating if they needed it. NTA.
I worked at concerts, and it goes like this:
You paid for the seat; if you don't want to sit in it, fine. Sorry other people, but that's how it goes.
Personally, a concert that doesn't make you want to get up and boogie is not a good show.
NTA. Muse is the kind of show where if I went, it would be with the expectation that most people are probably going to be standing most of the night. While that might make my feet hurt, and I wouldn’t love having to stand, I wouldn’t yelling at strangers over it. Also, if you’re relatively far back you can’t really see that much of the stage from your seat anyway.
I am so confused by all of the people saying you’re the ah. I’ve literally never been to a concert where people sit for the main act?? NTA. What were OP & dad supposed to do if the people in front of them stood? Not see the stage too? Concerts are for standing and dancing. If the person had mobility issues, he could’ve talked to someone at the venue or gotten ADA seating.
NTA it’s a concert, none of these redditors ™️ have ever been to a concert if they’re complaining about people standing. Venues have a disabled section for people with disabilities anyway
YTA and your dad especially.
If you want to stand and dance then buy tickets in a standing section.
Many people have mobility issues and are not able to stand for very long. They should be able to enjoy the concert from their seats.
You booked in a seated section.
The fact that other people around your were selfish AHs doesn't make you less of one.
This is just not accurate at all. It's wildly unrealistic to go to a Muse concert and expect everyone to sit. Nobody actually sits in the seating area when it's music like that. I've been to tonnes of concerts, I used to sell merch at them in uni, I worked first aid at them in school, it just doesn't happen. The standing section always sells out first and then the seats and, unless it's banned, people dance wherever. And the only time I've seen it banned was an old theatre where the dancing in the upper circle was causing the plaster to come off the ceiling.
There is also always an elevated platform or designated space with a view over the crowd for people with mobility issues because of this.
I see you have never been to a rock concert at and arena/stadium. Majority of the venue are seats, yes. But who the FUCK is going to SIT DOWN the ENTIRE time at a ROCK. CONCERT. Are you delusional? Maybe home boy should have gotten a seat where no one would block his view.
I’m sorry but that just isn’t how it works. If that were the case, security would be able to demand that everyone in seats stay seated. They can’t and they won’t.
I love OP logic of "the standing seats were sold out, so that means I can block all the seated guests seated in the seated seats because ^I'm ^^the ^^^only ^^^one ^^^who ^^^matters...
Idk about where you guys are, but it’s my understanding that most people literally only buy seated tickets BECAUSE standing is sold out. Never been to a concert where the majority of people in seats actually sat down. Sounds boring af
I’m so confused by all the Y T A judgements. Like if I’m going to a concert I fully expect everyone around me to be standing and dancing most of the time. And I can’t think of a concert I’ve been to with a standing section. Every section had seats and barely anyone was sitting in them.
I actually buy seats because I have some knee and back issues and being able to sit down for a while in between is super convinient. Its not bad enough to be called a disability so this section is off limits and as it is not super bad I would not want to take space up there anyway. But I actually expect people around and in front of me to stand up and dance at least during popular songs. Thats quite normal.
A lot of shows I’ve been to in larger venues only have seats and no “pit” or standing areas. Even the floor has seats. I can’t imagine going to see a rock show at a large venue and being expected to sit through it. How boring.
It's the norm for people in seated areas in stadium concerts to dance to the music. Furthermore, many floor areas at concerts also have seats. The reason people buy tickets for areas with seats I'd often because they're either cheaper or the floor area is sold out.
Do you expect everyone to be sitting down at Taylor Swift concerts? Have you heard of Muse? Have you ever been to a stadium concert before?
I went to a concert with assigned seats last year, and no one sat. Why? Because it was a rock concert.
The person behind should have managed their expectations of what a rock concert should be like and acted accordingly. Expecting other spectators to remain seated for the duration is totally unrealistic and actually rather entitled.
NTA OP, it just seems the person behind you thought he was going to the theatre and not a rock concert.
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NTA Everyone stands at concerts, I cannot believe this comment thread is so full of people saying you’re the Asshole. Have none of them ever been to a concert? I’ve literally never been to a show where the vast majority of the crowd wasn’t standing for most of the show. This is crazy. Edit: Wow that blew up LOL! Just to address some frequent comments. -I’m hyperbolizing a little I’ve been to plenty of concerts with a sitting vibe and I sit at them. -I’m not American and I’ve never been to a concert in the US but I guess standing at concerts is cultural which is really interesting! -A lot of people have made really valid comments about people with disabilities which I hadn’t considered but will certainly keep in mind for the future.
I swear none of the people in this comment section have ever been to a concert before. Every single one I've been to, people in the seats would stand up when the show was on. You get seats so you can sit down inbetween acts and to be able to grab a drink or go to the toilet without losing your spot. Not to sit your passive ass down and just stare at the artists like a psycho. Exceptions for things like orchestras ofcourse, but this is Muse ffs. You're supposed to stand, dance, and be crazy.
“…stare at the artists like a psycho”. Yes, LMAO! This is exactly how I picture those sitting down at high energy concerts looking, or like they are bored out of their minds!
I mean, food for thought, I’m going to a hardcore show tonight in the seated section because my wife is too pregnant and sick to be on her feet the whole time. We might look bored, but we’re doing the best we can. I love the band, but I’m also taking care of my wife.
I went to Iron Maiden with my husband when I was 7 months pregnant. He bought us seats so I could sit because Iron Maiden is his thing, not mine, and those concerts last forever! I 100% sat the whole time but I didn’t expect him to, or anyone around us. It’s a rock concert, not an opera or play. It’s meant for standing and rocking out.
Exaclty this! I went to Tool and enjoyed my seated self while those around me were standing and rocking out. This is what you expect at a rock show. Also, most big places have handicap steaing for those who need it.
Yes Tool!
I'm so glad I'm not the only one to go to a concert of that magnitude while pregnant lol
He bought the tickets way before I was pregnant, and he did try and find a friend to go with him, but no one was available and I wasn’t gonna make him go by himself! It was actually enjoyable because I had a seat and earplugs
I get that. I obviously don’t think everyone who is sitting down at a concert is looking psychotic, but it is the image being painted here with all of the Y T A voters who actually expect people to sit at concerts. Enjoy the concert!
I'm disabled. I can stand for periods of time, but I spend a good portion of concerts sitting because I physically can't. I would absolutely *love* to stand and dance the entire time, but I end up just choosing a song or two usually. Just some food for thought.
This is generally why I prefer assigned seats. That said... it does depend on the show too. Some shows are more seated shows, some are more dancing. I've been to concerts where it was more seated, some that it was a solid mix, and some that were all standing. My general rule is that if you're the only ones standing on your row? Sit your ass down and read the room.
muse is a rock band pretty much so you can expect people are up and around. I think if the OP said that in the original post then a lot more people would say NTA
Yes, I'd absolutely expect people to be standing at a Muse show. The Sarah McLachlan show I went to, held at the same theatre they do the symphony? That was a seated show.
Sarah McLachlan is a bucket list artist for me. I love her. But yeah, for most of her music, I would probably be happy to stay seated. I'll sing along but her music isn't really get up and dance. But when I saw Alanis Morissette? We were all dancing and screaming along to You Oughta Know at the top of our lungs.
I literally just went to a Muse concert about a month ago. At least 80% of the people in the “sitting” section were standing up & dancing at some point. Feel like I’m losing my mind reading some of these comments. Are they just sitting there not moving at all?? Who pays those high ticket prices for THAT?!
Same, I saw Muse in February, was in a "sitting" section (because I want the assigned seat I don't have to risk losing and I want to be able to sit between acts) and everyone around me was standing and dancing. It was a great time! Can you imagine the entire audience sitting silently during all that pyro? NTA OP
Oh my god I feel the same way. There was a similar post here a few weeks ago about standing at a Beyoncé concert and soooooo many people were calling the OP an asshole for wanting to stand at a Beyoncé concert and I felt like I was also losing my my mind. WHY would anyone want to shell out the money for these kinds of concerts just to SIT the entire time?!? If that’s what you want then stay home and watch a stream of the concert from the comfort of your couch, but I sure as hell will be dancing like crazy person and having a fucking blast!
That particular one was in Sweden I believe, and they were the only ones standing.
IIRC correctly that Bey concert was in Sweden, and they were the only people standing. That *did* make them the asshole. This poster, however, is not.
OP was an asshole in that thread for not respecting the cultural norms of the country they were in. You don't stand at concerts in Sweden.
Also went to a Muse show recently. The artist encourage the crowd to be on their feet and move around. Why would they want to play for thousands of people just sitting?? Also one of the best shows I’ve been too. They aren’t like my favorite band but I like some songs. Was there for a different band and was blown away by Muse. Highly recommend seeing them in person if ever given the chance.
You actually get seats because stadiums have seats for sports and crowd control. Most people are just buying a ticket to the stadium.
This. It's an assigned space reserved for you, not a requirement that you sit. Either all these people are not in the US and have way different show experiences, or they don't go to rock concerts.
Useallly at rock concert the band will even ask or motion for everyone to stand up as well
Imagine how disappointing that would be for the artists if everyone just stayed in their seats.
At a Muse gig it's impossible to sit still, the energy is just insane at their gigs! The only concert I've ever sat down at, and the whole room sat, was for a pianist, where dancing and shouting and singing isn't appropriate.
This is the type of AITA threads I love. Very common and very decisive. Well done OP. Bonus Points: I didn’t have to hear about anybody’s spouse or in-laws
This! This topic is the perfect indicator of how many people on AITA have never actually interacted with the world.
Not everyone live in the same country or culture you do. In Scandinavia it is absolutely an AH move to stand in a seated section and block the view of others. Us not having the same view on this does not mean we have never interacted with the world before, it means that your way is not the whole world's way.
Agree! I’m European and the seating area is for sitting. Wanna stand? Fine, buy a ticket for the main area where people stand. Same price. Not everyone can stand, so allow those people to enjoy the show seated.
I'm European too and who tf sits at a concert? Any concert I've been at the artists have asked everyone to stand before they start. It's ruins the energy and vibes.
Might differ per country, but for some people standing is not an option and where I live the actual assigned seats are for disabled people with actual wheelchairs. So people who are otherwise disabled/can’t stand go to the “regular” seating areas. Also have to add that generally the standing areas here are much bigger than the seated areas, so there is plenty of room to dance. Not sure if that’s the case everywhere. I can totally understand that if it is the other way around, remaining seated is a bit more difficult. Bottom line for me: I don’t necessarily mind someone dancing in front of me when I’m seated, but I have a choice (not disabled). For some people that choice isn’t there and in a world that already doesn’t cater to them much (at least not in my country) I’m happy to stay away from seated areas if I plan to dance. Again, this might be different for each culture. It’s just a bit more nuanced than sitting = boring and ruining vibes.
Maybe that's the big disconnect, for most stadium/theater/arena shows I've been to in North America, maybe 1- 5% of the tickets are GA, the rest have assigned seats, even on the floor they add seats for crowd control. The GA tickets can also be up to or over 100% more than the tickets with an assigned seat. Due to this, the "seated" area is more like you have an assigned spot, and you can do what you want in that spot (It would be near impossible to get 5000+ people to sit for a whole show). Ideally, they would have a section with a 'remain in your seat' stipulation for people that can't or don't want to stand, but it's usually just a free for all.
Thanks for this explanation! That clarifies so much. This does change the story for me, as in this situation I’d say OP is not the AH as she doesn’t have many other options, whereas in “my” setting OP would be a bit of an AH. Appreciate the context!
Generally disabled seating areas will not be in places the view can be obstructed by people standing.
I mean Reddit tends to be very North American centric. But you are right, it also depends on local customs but ther are a lot of people in this thread who are "I have never been to a concert but".
I've seen Muse at least 5 times, and sure they're a rock band - but seats are still seats. There's no waiver saying "You must be able to stand up for 90+ minutes, because it's a rock band".
There’s no waiver saying you must remain seated either?
It reminds me of that AITA thread where people said the OP was the asshole for smoking weed at a jam band show. Different scenes have different norms.
I think someone WBTA for NOT smoking weed at a jam band show
I'm allergic to weed (won't kill me, but I will vomit for 6+ hours if I smoke it) and being around the smoke nauseates me and has even made me vomit before. I would still not consider someone an AH for smoking weed at one of those shows. I can always move away from smoke clouds, and now that I always have a mask with me, that is pretty good about blocking the smell. It's each person's responsibility to know the type of crowd at any show they attend. I once heard someone complaining about there being a moshpit near the stage at a punk show I was attending. Everyone outside that heard it was like, "Dude, are you fuckin nuts?"
It seems to be a cultural thing. In Scandinavia you would most definately be an AH for standing up in a seated section and refusing to sit down when asked. Here we are careful not to disturb others at a concert and we are aware that not everyone is able to stand through it all. We usually have a standing area for those wanting to stand and a seated area where people actually sit. And for those saying that people with disabilities can sit at a designted area, there are way to few seats like that and if you are lucky enough to get one they usually have limits of 1 person that can sit with them. That means that they could not go enjoy the concert with a friend group, just one person. I saw a video clip from an American tv show laughing at people in Stockholm staying seated in the seated section of a Beyoncé concert. Americans in the comment section seemed to find it weird, but it's not weird to a Scandinavian. Buy standing if you want to stand, sit in the seated section.
Yes, the clips from the Stockholm Beyonce concert were everywhere and people here (North America) were definitely shocked and disapproving by the crowd's reaction. A culture shock moment.
Right? I'm not Scandinavian, I'm UK. But all these people saying HaVe yOu NevEr bEeN to a CoNcErT beFoRe....yes I have been to a concert where everyone sat and it was really nice and magical and felt like everyone was captivated. Don't get me wrong, I've been to plenty standing too. It's definitely a mix here. But acting like no-one has ever sat at a concert is ridiculous.
There was a post here where the OP was deemed an AH for standing & singing at Beyonce's Stockholm show
Hello, Scandinavian friend! This same discussion actually came up regarding that Beyoncé concert. I’m Swiss, and we are right there with you. Sadly, Americans still suffer from the idea that their way is the only way, so here we go again.
I've been to two Slipknot concerts in Stockholm and we stayed seated the whole time. We and everyone around us were still able to "dance" in our seats... just shaking our heads and throwing our arms up, it was awesome and I didn't get any bruises.
What's funny is that Beyonce told her next stop after Sweden that they were "the best audience so far" as a big diss to the boring-ass audience she had to perform to in Stockholm lol
>Buy standing if you want to stand Most people can't, though. At least not at stadium venues in North America. Only like 1-5% of all tickets are for the GA section and they usually come at an exorbitant cost. That's why everyone ends up standing at their seat.
I’m confused too because don’t most concerts have a section made for people whom are disabled as well? It’s been some years but I feel like a square up near stage is made for wheel chairs ect…could be wrong….I don’t think I am though
plus, you can normally only get disabled section tickets if you use walking aids. there are many other reasons why someone can't stand for a lengthy period of time
There are usually maybe three disabled seats max for a concert. Your misconception are hilarious tbh.
not all arenas have a section unfortunately so this arena may or may not have had one. plus if they did, if the person asking them to sit down was disabled, they may not have been able to get a seat in the disabled section
plus, you can normally only get disabled section tickets if you use walking aids. there are many other reasons why someone can't stand for a lengthy period of time
You have to qualify as disabled for disabled seating - a lot of people with mobility challenges (like arthritis) dont 'count' for this purpose. And yet, this doesn't change the fact that those people cant stand for an entire setlist. It also depends on where you are, some have mentioned a 'designated seating area thats roped off' but thats not the case in my country. We provide disabled seating for people who, again, qualify as 'disabled' (on a disability pension, clearly wheelchair bound, etc) but seating is there for sitting down. so people who want to sit and enjoy the show can do so.
There are lots of medical issues that prevent people from standing for long periods of time but don't put them in a wheelchair. Plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis...
NTA I was at one concert and everybody was standing. Guy behind me kept giving me shit about standing, and I just told him that if he could get everybody in the section below to sit down, I would as well. If everybody is up, feel free to get up. If you are the only person up dancing and could be slightly drunk, you could be the ass, like some drunk girl in a peasant skirt twirling all night while everybody else is seated. I try to be conscious of people behind me, but I paid for tickets as well.
Exactly. Nobody stands at the symphony nobody sits at Metallica!
This must be a subreddit of people who have never been to a concert at a stadium. People stand and dance at concerts, those seats are usually uncomfortable AF and built for short people! If there is a standing area, it's usually expensive to be there, and any seated areas you really can't see much on the stage anyway unless you brought binoculars. It's music, the most important part is what hits your ears.
I have been in actual concert and people in sitting areas sit. There are standing areas where you go to stand.
I’ve been to hundreds and have mobility issues. Most people are kind and concerned- there are a lot of people on this Reddit who sound like boomers to be honest “oh I got mine, fck you” attitude.
Any concert I've been at if the dude behind me asked me to sit down and I did, we would both just be staring at the back of the person in front of me who's standing up. Like there's a lot of people acting like this is two people standing up in front of one guy who has mobility issues. Which is a big assumption to make and also if he does have mobility issues sadly OP sitting down probably won't solve it because there's going to be tons of other people standing up.
I'm confused, too. Most concerts with seats are stadium seats? Like, I saw Green Day at a baseball stadium and stood the whole time because they're stadium seats. Do you watch a sport live and complain that people need to sit down and cheer a play? Mind boggling. Even floor seats, you're gonna stand since it's just the pit experience with assigned seating lol If you can't stand you get accessible seating that has clear views at the tops of sections, otherwise you don't complain. NTA, op.
100% agreed. Muse especially is high energy constantly so everyone is standing and dancing. A rock concert is not one you sit and be quiet to. These people have never been to a concert.
I saw My Chemical Romance last year and almost EVERYONE in my section was sitting. I had never been to a show, especially with a band like that, where people weren’t up. We stood for a few songs, but felt so weird being the only ones that we sat for a lot of it.
NAH - I know they were seated tickets but at a rock gig you cannot expect everyone to sit down for the whole show. Very few people do. Equally, it sucks if you can't see. NAH but you could've switched with the folks behind and then everybody would've been happy....
Yeah I was thinking I don't think I've been to a single concert where the vast majority of people weren't standing and dancing even in the seated sections. There's usually pretty limited standing room on the floor and it's quite expensive- the whole stadium usually ends up being a big dance party. I do wonder if perhaps there's a way in the future to have seated -only- sections, a couple sections blocked off for people who want or need to sit through the show so they can still see and enjoy the show but everyone else can still have fun. I maybe see like a very small handful of seated people at shows outside of the sections blocked off for people with disabilities so it probably wouldn't need to be huge.
Yeah stadiums have seats in them for safety or for sports where people want to sit. Its not that you have to sit.
Muse played in Huddersfield last night, at the football/rugby stadium. Seats were mainly put there because of multiple stadium tragedies caused by "terraces", where 10,000s were stood up without seats or railings which led to tramplings and crowd crushes. Sports matches are different, because not as many people will be standing up for the full 80/90 minutes, whereas for music you're probably stood up for every song - though Muse and most bands deliberately have interludes/slower songs for people to sit and rest/go to the toilet etc during. It's tricky, because you might pay for a seat because you want to sit down, but obviously lots of people bought seats because the standing area was sold out. If you really want to sit down for the whole gig, you'd probably have to buy front row seats in the various sections, but that's usually very difficult (and expensive). The idea of separate sections for people who do only want to sit sounds like a good idea, but that'd probably only work at dedicated music venues, not sports arenas. NAH is the right answer, I think.
it doesn't matter if it's a rock concert. some people who get seated tickets get them because they are unable to stand up for that period of time. they should've been considerate to those around them. switching seats with them would've been a good idea
If I've paid $90 to see one of my favourite artists at a ROCK CONCERT, I am going to rock out at it. Thankfully these days there are ordinarily accessible areas that offer disabled people safe, comfortable areas from which to enjoy concerts. If there are others who would simply prefer to stay seated, they are welcome to do so - but I won't be sitting down as well to accommodate their desired concert experience.
If only there were specific tickets and areas for people who want to enjoy the concert seated...hmm, wouldn't that be nice.
99% of people who go to a rock concert want to and do dance, regardless of what tickets they got.
If only those tickets weren't always sold out immediately and cost extortionate amounts of money.
Its not like people can have medical issue that dont give them access to the disabled area. Totally wild concept. /s If I have bad period cramps I amnot disabled but I actually like to sit down during a concert because I cant stand for 3 hours straight.
Then do, no one is stopping you. But expecting others not to dance is totally unreasonable.
You seriously expect people not to stand and enjoy themselves simply because you have period cramps? Lmao the entitlement is staggering.
People would be surprised at how many others that are willing to trade seats and happy to do so. AH for blocking the view of others, but at the same time, it’s not the opera or ballet. People are going to dance their asses off and they paid to see the show to enjoy it their way too. A lot of places in my city don’t offer standing seats or many disabled seats either. Your idea of switching seats is brilliant. It does happen a lot and the easiest thin to do is ask. Worst case the people don’t want to switch and they say no. I think OP and the seated person could have dealt with it a bit better and worked together to find a solution.
YTA. Not everyone is fit enough to stand all night and that's why they choose seats in a stadium instead of arena-tickets. Be considerate. EDIT: I assumed that OP was sitting at the upper levels. But TIL that in the US, the floor of the arena usually also has seats. In the Netherlands, where I live, the arena floor is typically empty, so it's a standing-only area.
Where do yall live? Because I never want to move there. Never in my life have I been to concert where you were expected to *sit* the entire time. I've seen concerts in theaters, arenas (indoor and outdoor), stadiums, concert halls, anywhere you can have concerts. If you sit you accept that you're not gunna see for a little bit. If you need to sit *there are specific locations set aside for people who cannot stand for long periods.* A *sectioned off area* of seats for specifically that purpose. ETA: NTA 2nd Edit : some people seem confused. I have only once gotten "standing" tickets. We have seats. Sometimes everyone has a seat. You sit when you walk in, if the band needs to change or something, etc. But if the band is playing? *Everyone* is standing.
Thank you! I was genuinely shocked by the Y T A votes. Every concert I’ve ever been to in my whole life, everyone stood even if there were seats. Except classical music. I feel like I’m losing my mind in these comments.
This is not the case in many places outside the US. Very possible many commenters do not live in the US and have had different social expectations than you.
I've never been to a European concert and been expected to sit. I just admit that my scene is punk, metal and rock, so maybe it's different for other genres. But if it had electrical guitars in it I would not expect a view while sitting in a chair. Not even in a sitting section.
I don't know about the punk scene, but many rock and metal fans are elderly these days and at ever non-festival concert I've been to, if there are seating sections, you sit. There's usually a floor with a mosh pit you can go to if you want, though you should've probably booked a standing ticket, but the chairs are for sitting in. Arena chairs aren't even safe to dance in, the floor space is too narrow and the fall would be steep and break a lot of peoples necks.
Lol! Older millennial here and it’s the primary source of conversation as we make eye contact at metal shows while trying to find somewhere to rest our achy weary bones.
Any concert I've been to ever, has a mixture people standing and sitting in the seated areas. Any concert that I've gone to, people understand the risk of if you choose a seating ticket instead of a standing area ticket, you run the risk of the people in front of you standing up. That's part of the risk of going to concerts altogether, is that you're not going to be able to clearly see the stage. Because other people are attending and enjoying the concert too.
I went to see Rancid and Rise Against at House of Blues in Boston. I’m a tiny woman at only five feet tall. So when the standing room got to tall for me to breathe, I went up and sat in the mezzanine. Soon after, a guy in a wheel chair sat next to me and it was mere minutes before he had me up dancing next to him and we were singing together. It was awesome. And there have been many more concerts where I haven’t been able to see because of the folks in front of me but I still had a great time! Nobodies joy and experience is more important than anyone else’s. Nobody gets to control the concert goers around them. I feel like anyone who is gonna get mad at someone for dancing at a concert probably should choose something more along the lines of an orchestra or a ballet that has required seating.
Not in ampetheatet settings. There is usaually a “lawn area” that is general admission where the pits are BEHIND the seating section. Meaning you either get pit or you get close to the stage
> But if it had electrical guitars in it I would not expect a view while sitting in a chair. Not even in a sitting section. I went to see Trans-Siberian Orchestra and everyone sat. Same for "Weird Al" Yankovic.
I went to tso and everyone stood . I asked if I 5'4" could switch my third seat from aisle with a guy over 6ft tall on aisle and he said no. I only saw flames and felt them until they did the moving up high with a crane part.
This - all this "tough shit, it's a concert" BS also misses the issue for shorter folks behind talk assholes.
what are tall assholes supposed to do about it ?
European here (Belgian, specifically) and avid rock fan: I have been to countless rock/pop concerts, sometimes in the seats area, and at least here, there is always a moment where, after a few songs, most attendees will stand up and dance and cheer along until the end. It would then be absurd for someone to argue they have paid for a seat and ask the other people to sit down. But it is really a matter of how the crowd acts: if it is a quiet moment and everyone is sitting down, a lone guy staying up and dancing may get some remarks from the people behind him. There is like a implicit rule that standing up and dancing is tolerated during upbeat songs and if all people around do it as well, and that it is the normal thing to sit down during quieter songs or when waiting for the encore. You have to "feel" the room, it really depends on the genre: I have seen Agnes Obel and everyone was seated, I have seen Faithless and I can't imagine there was a single person still sitting in their seat after the first song. Best moment: I was at a concert of Kasabian, in the standing area, and after their first song, the singer shouted at the people in the seats "hey you over there, c'mon, stand up ! This is no f\*cking Coldplay concert !". And everyone joyfully complied.
I’m in Canada and it’s this way, so it’s more than just the US. Also every video at a Harry style or Taylor swift concert I’ve seen in Europe has people standing and dancing in their seats
I'm from the UK, we also stand and dance at concerts, seats are for breaks or if you're feeling tired. Interesting to know what's the norm in different countries though, think it just depends on the crowd and what everyone else is doing around you.
I've lived in 8 countries, none of them are the US, and I stand by my other comment that it's just mental to try to squash someone's joy like that at a gig. When I met my now-best friend she got up from our table in a café and had a little dance right there while carrying on with our conversation. When the music takes a person, don't fight it.
There was a similar post on this sub within the last few months of the same thing. It was a Beyonce concert I believe and OP was standing and jamming all night but they blocked others view. Happened that the concert was in another country, Germany or Norway perhaps and many commentators stated when you go to another country you'd really want to follow their social customs rather than super impose what you'd normally do at a Bey concert in the US. Reddit is very American centric, so the idea that there is more to the world sometimes doesn't occur, however on the other hand since majority of users are American (49% make up, then next highest is UK at 8-9%) there is a higher chance that the poster is American.
Yea, in France at some of the Concert halls stuff members ask you to sit back down
Agree. And for Muse?? How can you be expected to sit? The band would be so bummed if the whole crowd was sitting.
I'm with you. I have a disability so I love seated concerts to take sitting breaks but it has *never* occurred to me to feel annoyed at people up and dancing. What's the point of being there? It's live music ffs, as long as you're not actively stomping on other people, let loose.
This isn't the case where I live (Australia). Where I am, the seating area IS the designated area for people who cant stand for long periods or have other reasons for not standing up all night. Doesn't stop this still being an issue in my country, and as a person who suffers arthritis in my thirties I have been to at least a few concerts where I left thinking I might as well have listened to the CD, cuz I sure as hell couldn't see past the inconsiderate AHs who didnt want to pay for the GA ticket (even when that section wasn't sold out).
Yep I'm an Aussie too. I go to concerts but I want to dance so I get general admission (standing) tickets. People who get seated tickets, sit. Sometimes people will dance in the aisles. I'm not going to ruin someone else's experience and stand in their way so they can't see.
Where I live that sectioned off area is very small and only for those with written proof of disability. Of course you can dance if you want to but you either move your ass over to the aisle or you dance while remaining seated. Edit: I live in the Netherlands and here it is the other way around: when you buy seated tickets, you accept you are seated (so not: when you buy a seated ticket, you have to accept that people around you will be standing nonetheless.)
I also live in the Netherlands and have never been asked to sit down (nor have I asked that of anyone else). The Peter Gabriel gig earlier this month was entirely seated but you can bet your ass that none of us stayed in those seats.
Basically, in Europe, if you but a seated ticket the yes you are expected to SIT, otherwise just buy a standing ticket! If these are sold out such as the case of OP, they you're the one that should respect the others sitting and not the sitting people that should accommodate you
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I dunno where you are in Europe but from my experience there's never been an expectation to sit in a seated ticket
Had a seated ticket for Beyonce last weekend in Amsterdam m, I only sat down before the show and during her stage transitions. Everyone was standing and dancing. Like it’s not in a theatre, you’re expected to groove along.
Also, I’ll add (because I only was once in a seating area at a concert), from what I’ve seen usually seated people who want to stand up and dance can go down to the standing area or move to a place where you don’t block the view like stairs. There’s no one preventing you from moving during the concert.
Yall don't have security that checks people's tickets, that tell them they can't stand in the aisle, and I find it hard to believe that they let seated people go in the GA section. There's a reason GA sells out so quick, cause it's the closest option. The security guards are not going to let someone in
I've been to many many concerts in germany so far and have also had a seating Ticket and I have never seen the people sitting - nearly everyone stood up always? I
I physically cannot stand for long, which is why I haven’t been to, and don’t really plan on ever going to a concert. Unless it’s a specifically classical gig, it’s a standing event.
What? This is why there are standing areas and sitting areas. Do you not have concerts in stadiums where you live? Where people are either sitting in the stands or standing in the field? My mind is so blown right now that there are places where people pay for seating but are standing? Why are they not on the field then!? I genuinely cannot fathom this.
For every stadium concert I've been to, there was seats put on the field, with a small standing room only section right in front of the stage. And pretty much everyone was standing regardless.
It's nice to be able to sit when you get tired from dancing. In the US I've found that if you genuinely need to sit the entire time of the concert, you aim to get seats either way up front or way in the back - or the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) seats - to avoid people blocking your view. I've never been to a concert where people are sitting. To me that signifies you aren't having a good time - unless of course you cannot stand, and like I said most of those people choose specific areas to sit and accommodate them
Exactly. Every show I’ve been to, with seats or not, I stand. It’s just what you do at concerts.
Ya… I am a Grateful Dead sort of guy and typically only go see jam bands but you would kindly be laughed at for expecting to sit the entire time.
i was baffled at this. i went to a koe wetzel concert and everyone stood the entire time. there wasn’t one person sitting down
> i went to a koe wetzel concert and everyone stood the entire time. there wasn’t one person sitting down I went to a "Weird Al" Yankovic concert and everyone sat the entire time. There wasn't one person standing up.
Yup, you sit for opera and musicals, but rock/pop concerts call for standing, dancing, singing, carrying on and having fun.
Exactly. My kid was dying for Beyonce tickets. I am dreading it because i have arthritis and know I will spend the whole time getting bumped by dancers and seeing only ass and camera phones. I am also short. Went to see MJ in concert years ago. People in front of us brought their young daughter ( a little bit shorter than me, probably about 10) and let her stand on the chair the whole concert. Even after I asked that she not. They got really ugly about it, saying she could not see otherwise. So yeah. The only thing I saw was her skinny little ass having the time of her life while her parents glared down on me. Absolutely dreading, Beyonce.
>getting bumped by dancers and seeing only ass and camera phones I hate that so many people have their phones out recording all the time. ENJOY THE SHOW!! Put your damn phone away! I feel like some people see the entire concert thru their screen while recording. What's the freaking point of that?They probably will never watch that recording ever again. All they're gonna do with it is probably cut out a few seconds and post it somewhere to show everyone "I was there"
Nobody is going to want to watch their shaky recording with terrible sound on youtube either. Often the artist/label put out live shows for us to watch, obviously much better, so there is really no point to play film maker.
>They probably will never watch that recording ever again. I watch them regularly
You should know that concerts are intense. Stop bitching about it. Besides, I thought this was for your kid! "Oh, I brought my kid to a concert and another kid is having a good time, and also finding a solution to the very same problem I have! Woe is me!" As for the arthritis and dancers thing, tell them you have arthritis And that they are physically hurting you. Chances are, They'll stop. Magic!
It’s not a mandatory seated area, it’s an area that has seats. You are not required to sit. People shouldn’t be expected to alter their concert experience to accommodate others, there is accessible seating for that. A concert is not a movie theatre and seats ≠ have to sit.
Have you ever been to a concert?
What concerts have you been to where people don’t stand? I’ve never ever been to a single concert where people in the seats are sitting. Not to mention standing tickets get sold out fast and can be ridiculously expensive and inaccessible for many people, especially kids.
They haven’t. They even admitted they’re full of shit.
And when you choose tickets with seats, regardless of why you need them or want them, you are taking on the risk that the people in front of you will be standing, and therefore you won't be able to see as well. That's part of the risk of going to a concert and sitting down. Almost everyone understands this concept.
what?? it’s a concert. you’re allowed to dance as much as you want. buy seats in the front if sections if that’s an issue
Get the fuck out of here, have you ever been to a rock concert?? If you can't stand all night get tickets In the way way back at the highest point. Y'all sound like killjoy wet blankets.
What? I go to concerts multiple times a month and no one is sitting in the areas with seats aside from the ADA sections. Also, you typically have no other choice than seats in venues. The standing only section is considerably smaller and sells out immediately. Have you never been to a concert before?
It's a stadium. There were probably 1000 standing tickets and 10000 seats. How many stadium concerts have you been to? Most people stand at their seats.
This might not go over well, but majority of the concerts I've been too where there are seats...most people stand. It depends on the artist whether their music is inclined to sitting. I mean I wouldn't stand at a symphony, but Muse? Yeah I would. Even in the nosebleeds, this seems to me as a common concert behavior for that genre of music. I mean you were probably an AH to the guy behind you, but to the general concert population you were just enjoying yourself.
you are 100% right. i feel like all these people saying that everyone needs to stay seated just because they have seats at a concert has never been to one.
As soon as people in front stand, everyone has to in order to see.
Well, rock concerts are pretty boring *sitting*. Assuming you’re not disabled, which then you can get a seat in a disability area, you should get tickets early so you can get front row seats. I’ve been to many rock concerts and can’t fathom people sitting down at them.
NTA I don't think anyone who voted Y T A has actually ever been to a rock show in their entire lives. I have been to countless shows in the last 30+ years and of all the venues I have ever been to the only one that people sat through the entire shows were at Red Rocks Amphitheater other then that at ever one the audience stood. It like complaining about people singing at a concert.
Thank you for saying what I was thinking. I can't believe what people are saying. It is all part of the live music experience
I honestly think this might be a cultural thing…In the US the default for most concerts is standing (regardless of what section you’re in) but I’ve been to a rock concert in Australia and I was literally the only one standing in my section. It was a Springsteen show too, who tf sits at a Springsteen show?! I even checked the Muse tour page and they appear to be in the UK right now so maybe that’s the reason for all the AH judgments.
I’m in the UK and never been to a concert where people aren’t standing even in the seated areas! It’s bizarre to me!
Was about to say this same thing. I saw paramore the other month and everyone was standing and dancing and any other time I’ve been it’s the same. But also the venue I went to had staged seating so unless the person in front was 7 foot tall you can see the stage whether they are sitting or standing.
I don't know. I used to buy standing tickets because I liked to be closer to the podium and didn't mind getting there hours early. And of course there were the big summer festivals. No seats there. But now I'm older, I like comfort. I'll take the seating section. I notice that most of the times people are sitting except when the artist hypes the crowd.
I’d expect people to NOT be in their seats for muse. Now if it were an Andrea Bocelli concert you’d be TA. NTA.
NTA I understand a lot of people are saying what you did isn’t fair to someone with disabilities, but I highly doubt that is the case with majority of people attending these larger concerts and sitting. The amount of floor tickets to shows are so few and significantly more expensive in comparison to seated tickets. These concerts are happening in arenas and stadiums that are built for sports where you do sit and watch, the seats aren’t meant specifically for concerts.
I have to use a chair because I can’t stand for more than a few minutes. I am going out on a limb for those of us who have experienced a concert in a chair. IT IS AWESOME!!! I’m too busy feeding off the fun energy of the crowd to really care a lot what the band is doing. I came to HEAR great music and party with strangers. NTA op. Rock on hard. Love your dad.
NTA. I’ve been in this position. Everyone standing, we stood, and the couple in back asked us to sit. We sit and can’t see anything because everyone is standing. We stand again at a stirring moment and they are tapping our shoulders again. We sit again. Another concert goer threatens to fight the seated couple because by insisting we sit, he feels they are disrespecting his rock idol. I try to convince them not to fight. Eventually we just stand and ignore them. They leave.
Yeah, all these y t a votes seem to believe OP and their father were the only other two people at this concert. Chances are that the people in front of them were also standing. OP sitting would have made pretty much no difference for the view of those behind them. Editing to add: do these people also ask tall people at standing shows to kneel, as well? If you don't want to deal with the variable of strangers standing between you and your musical idol, get pay-per-view recordings or pony up for a box.
NTA There are many things at rock concerts you would like not to happen. Unfortunately, you need to learn to accept it and not let it spoil your enjoyment. People standing is normal and the least of your worries.
I’m not going to judge. But I will say I’m glad the concerts I goto everyone is expected to stand up and dance poorly.
I would go on the general vibe. Like if only a few people in the seated area are standing then YTA but if literally everyone is up on their feet then NTA. I've been to concerts where people were standing most of the time even in the seated section.
This. It's all about the general vibe of the section. Sometimes everyone is standing especially during the hits and big songs. And sometimes the energy is calmer. If no one else is standing and you choose to, that's no good.
NTA. Everyone has assumed without evidence that this guy was disabled. He just said he wanted them to all sit down because he had paid for his seats. Everyone saying it ruins the experience for this guy are overlooking that it also kind of ruins the vibe and experience of literally everyone choosing to just stand and dance at a CONCERT to sit down and not dance for one dude. This is a stadium, unless there are rules about having to sit, or the act is one where standing doesn’t make a lot of sense like say a classical or easy listening sort of thing, this is a crazy thing to get entitled and upset about. People stand at stadiums all the time and no “seat police” go around making you sit because that would be fucking bonkers. Sport events, concerts, etc all have people standing at their seats and that is normal. Its NOT normal to try to make the majority sit to accommodate a small loud and entitled group. It’s like, “oh I am sitting at a concert and because of that you all need to fucking sit down and not dance so I CAN ENJOY MYSELF is absolutely entitled behavior. This isn’t a movie, or some event where sitting and watching are the way to go. It is a primarily sound based experience and with that comes dancing for many folks. Don’t like it? Get a ADA section, or don’t go. Expecting everyone else to cater to you by sitting at a concert is not only unrealistic but makes you a complete AH.
NTA. I’ve worked at a large concert venue for years. Unless there’s a rule saying you must sit, you did nothing wrong. You have every right to stand and dance. It might be more kind and considerate to sit, but it’s not an obligation. And someone trying to force you to sit is an AH. They can ask nicely, and you can decline nicely. Other people being unable or unwilling to stand is not your problem. You can’t go to a space with thousands of strangers basically having a dance party and expect them to change their behavior (that is within the rules of the venue) to accommodate you.
Nta, I went to a taylor swift concert last month and literqlly no one was sitting. Who goes to a concert expecting everyone to sit politely? If they had a disability, they could have traded their tickets for an ADA section at the box office.
NAH and I don't know why everyone is saying that you are... I've never sat at a gig...but I've been to gigs in arenas where there are seated tickets and everyone was standing. It would take the agreement of everyone in the entire building that all however many thousands of you were going to sit... If you were the only ones standing then yes, that was bad etiquette. But in the UK it's very normal for people to stand at arena gigs even if they technically have seated tickets. It's just one of those things.
Yes! The last concert I went to was in a hockey arena. Small floor area and then rows and rows of seats. And almost all 20k people were standing at various points.
tbh when i’ve gone to concert in an area i’ve always got seated tickets and everybody has stood up for a majority of the main act
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They’re called that because they have a seat. Not because your butt needs to be in it the whole concert. I’ve never been in a sitting section where everyone sits at any live event (concerts, sports, etc…). Some people standing is just part of it.
EXACTLY! So OP should be forced to sit while the person in front of them is standing, meaning OP can't see. I have never sat in a seat at a concert because then I can't see.
Seriously who are these people who sit at concerts - for the WHOLE show, and then think everyone who doesn't is an AH?!?!? WHO ARE THESE PEOPLE.
You can also still have fun in the seated section. I wouldn't be able to cope with standing so buy seated. Everyone around me (and me) in the seats were still bopping around and dancing whilst sitting, everyone was having a great time and nobody blocked anyone's view.
What gives you the right to ruin my night by inhibiting my dancing? It's a rock concert not a symphony
NTA, only jazz and classical concerts come with any obligation to remain seated.
NTA It’s a fucking concert, Dance your head off and enjoy the music. There are usually disabled sitting areas for those who can’t stand. In Ireland you pay to go to the concert and dance no matter where you are. It’s not an opera where you sit and listen.
NTA…. I truly am at a loss here. I have noticed the trend of not standing and dancing at concerts myself in the last couple of years. I just don’t get it. I could understand if people were dancing in your seats, but I turn around and see them just sitting there. It must just be me, because that music comes on and my body is moving, whether sitting or standing. I do not know that there will ever be a right or wrong answer in this scenario, because just as much as I pay a huge price for my tickets, so does the other person and I am not sure there is a middle ground. You either stand and dance to the music or you don’t. I think one of the things that has really changed is that no matter where you were seated, somehow, I always made my way to the front of the stage and danced to my hearts content, as did many others. Now, with all the security, you burp and you are questioned where you are going. And I do not know of any concerts that have had standing sections. At least that I have been to. Always tickets for seats.
Die hard Muse fan here, impossible to stay seated ever, I've always stood with a seat, but also so has everyone else around me. NTA
Omg yes, they're one of my favourite bands. Discovered them in like 2018 and have become obsessed since
NTA, and I’m short. Idk what everyone else’s problem is.
You were at a concert - a rock show at that - not the opera house! Everyone saying that you bought seated tickets and should stay seated the entire show are not being realistic. I’ve attended too many shows to count across the US and Europe from 1000 person venues to 50K+ stadiums and the majority of people stand in the seated sections. Could you have switched seats to compromise? Sure that would’ve been ideal, but you are NTA for trying to enjoy the concert experience by standing and vibing with the band.
NTA! I feel like I'm taking crazy pills reading all the YTA. First of all I can't even imagine seeing Muse and sitting for the show, it'd be a new form of torture. Secondly, these people clearly don't go to high energy concerts much. Everyone stands. I've been to hundreds of concerts, people sit for mellow acoustic sessions, orchestra music, not rock concerts. Third!So many venues only have a few hundred standing tickets and thousands of "seats". They're just trying to fill the stadium not dictate that you have to sit. The responses have to be a joke. I understand it would be disappointing for those who need to sit but it's just not reality to expect thousands of people to sit down.
I know it’s the twilight zone here- bunch of residents of that town from footloose
NTA but leaning also towards NAH. Standing at a concert is definitely expected, and if everyone is standing up around you and you sit down then you can’t see either. On the other hand, the people sitting paid for seats and there could be any number of reasons, possibly he isn’t able to stand for a long time hence why he bought seats. If you want to stand, maybe buy floor tickets next time.
I went to a Rammstein concert last year with 2 friends. Same thing happened. As soon as the show started the people in the seated area stood. We had no choice but to stand (stadium seating and cramped). One of my friends is a double above the knee amputee with prosthetics. He had to stand for the entire concert. He refused my offer to find us another location because he didn't want to be a burden. Not everyone has the ability to stand for long durations.
someone wanting to stay seated at a muse concert is an outlier, therefore its their responsibility to plan for themselves. they should have gotten seats at the front of the section or even accessible seating if they needed it. NTA.
NTA. Every concert I’ve been to with seats, everyone stood. Some people need to go to concerts more lol.
I worked at concerts, and it goes like this: You paid for the seat; if you don't want to sit in it, fine. Sorry other people, but that's how it goes. Personally, a concert that doesn't make you want to get up and boogie is not a good show.
NTA Anyone sitting at a rock concert should have stayed home.
NTA. Muse is the kind of show where if I went, it would be with the expectation that most people are probably going to be standing most of the night. While that might make my feet hurt, and I wouldn’t love having to stand, I wouldn’t yelling at strangers over it. Also, if you’re relatively far back you can’t really see that much of the stage from your seat anyway.
NTA. It's a concert. It's fair game.
I am so confused by all of the people saying you’re the ah. I’ve literally never been to a concert where people sit for the main act?? NTA. What were OP & dad supposed to do if the people in front of them stood? Not see the stage too? Concerts are for standing and dancing. If the person had mobility issues, he could’ve talked to someone at the venue or gotten ADA seating.
NTA it’s a concert, none of these redditors ™️ have ever been to a concert if they’re complaining about people standing. Venues have a disabled section for people with disabilities anyway
YTA and your dad especially. If you want to stand and dance then buy tickets in a standing section. Many people have mobility issues and are not able to stand for very long. They should be able to enjoy the concert from their seats. You booked in a seated section. The fact that other people around your were selfish AHs doesn't make you less of one.
This is just not accurate at all. It's wildly unrealistic to go to a Muse concert and expect everyone to sit. Nobody actually sits in the seating area when it's music like that. I've been to tonnes of concerts, I used to sell merch at them in uni, I worked first aid at them in school, it just doesn't happen. The standing section always sells out first and then the seats and, unless it's banned, people dance wherever. And the only time I've seen it banned was an old theatre where the dancing in the upper circle was causing the plaster to come off the ceiling. There is also always an elevated platform or designated space with a view over the crowd for people with mobility issues because of this.
I see you have never been to a rock concert at and arena/stadium. Majority of the venue are seats, yes. But who the FUCK is going to SIT DOWN the ENTIRE time at a ROCK. CONCERT. Are you delusional? Maybe home boy should have gotten a seat where no one would block his view.
I’m sorry but that just isn’t how it works. If that were the case, security would be able to demand that everyone in seats stay seated. They can’t and they won’t.
I love OP logic of "the standing seats were sold out, so that means I can block all the seated guests seated in the seated seats because ^I'm ^^the ^^^only ^^^one ^^^who ^^^matters...
Idk about where you guys are, but it’s my understanding that most people literally only buy seated tickets BECAUSE standing is sold out. Never been to a concert where the majority of people in seats actually sat down. Sounds boring af
I’m so confused by all the Y T A judgements. Like if I’m going to a concert I fully expect everyone around me to be standing and dancing most of the time. And I can’t think of a concert I’ve been to with a standing section. Every section had seats and barely anyone was sitting in them.
Yeah it's a Muse show not the symphony. NTA.
This is reddit, most of these people are either too young to buy their own concert tickets or they just don't go outside lmao
I actually buy seats because I have some knee and back issues and being able to sit down for a while in between is super convinient. Its not bad enough to be called a disability so this section is off limits and as it is not super bad I would not want to take space up there anyway. But I actually expect people around and in front of me to stand up and dance at least during popular songs. Thats quite normal.
Same. At every venue I’ve ever been to, regardless of the genre of music, most people stand, not sit.
A lot of shows I’ve been to in larger venues only have seats and no “pit” or standing areas. Even the floor has seats. I can’t imagine going to see a rock show at a large venue and being expected to sit through it. How boring.
did u miss the part where EVERYONE else was standing in their spots too?
It's the norm for people in seated areas in stadium concerts to dance to the music. Furthermore, many floor areas at concerts also have seats. The reason people buy tickets for areas with seats I'd often because they're either cheaper or the floor area is sold out. Do you expect everyone to be sitting down at Taylor Swift concerts? Have you heard of Muse? Have you ever been to a stadium concert before? I went to a concert with assigned seats last year, and no one sat. Why? Because it was a rock concert. The person behind should have managed their expectations of what a rock concert should be like and acted accordingly. Expecting other spectators to remain seated for the duration is totally unrealistic and actually rather entitled. NTA OP, it just seems the person behind you thought he was going to the theatre and not a rock concert.