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Post by americanresident3333 on Apr 1, 2024 10:44:32 GMT
There’s a certain actor who was/is in a West End play that happens to be one of the more expensive ones to attend, and this actor and said play keep getting brought up in these West End ticket prices/celebrities taking over the West End news articles. But this actor isn’t even someone I’d call famous (not saying that as an insult to their talents, just speaking in terms of name recognition). If you’ve heard of them it’s only been very recently, like within the last 1-2 years and they’re still really obscure. I don’t that actor is some some rich famous celebrity.
A lot of these articles seem to insinuate that it’s the actors’ faults that ticket prices are high and that the actors are therefore being greedy. I don’t think that’s the case.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 1, 2024 13:40:56 GMT
If you get a hot property from a film or a TV series on the stage like Daniel Radcliffe or now Tom Holland there will be a demand for tickets so prices will be higher even if the actor isn't an acclaimed veteran like say Brian Cox.
I'll also factor in agent's cuts etc. Can anyone recall when AlW wanted Scarlett Johansson for Sound of Music and was close to agreeing a deal which I think I read or maybe ALW actually stated was about £15k per week but then the agent pulled out of negotiations as they felt Scarlett could make a load more doing film roles and they thus get a bigger cut.
Several very well known actors have said they took on work which would be considered "low brow" for them as the film roles paid so well then they had the freedom to explore more challenging but less well remunerated stage roles.
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Post by jojo on Apr 1, 2024 15:24:12 GMT
I'm sure you are right about agents being more bothered about fees than many of the actors, although it is arguably the responsibility of those stars to see that their agent knows their priorities. If it's important to them they should either agree to a balance of big money vs rewarding, or ensure their agent gets a minimum fee in absolute terms in any given year.
There will be a lot of agents who are keen for their hot property client to do as much high paid work in as short a space of time as possible, regardless of whether it is good for their long term financial interests, never mind whether or not they'll find it rewarding. It takes a certain amount of confidence/motivation/savviness to forge your own path. And it's one thing to get your agent to organise your schedule so you can spend a few weeks on a mid-budget indy film that will hopefully score well on IMDB, but another to block out three+ months for a stage show.
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Post by justfran on Apr 1, 2024 18:04:22 GMT
I struggle to feel concern for star names who think they've been underpaid, when it's apparent they are significantly wealthier than most people we'd consider to be rich. I have some sympathy to the notion that if someone signs up for something that goes onto become very financially successful, especially a multi-part film series (whose role is more important than some would have initially assumed), then they should get a share of that success. As budgets increased, so should fees for the actors, but it was a large cast and I expect a lot went on the special effects. So I'm not losing any sleep over it. I read a recent interview by a well known, but not mega-famous Hollywood tv actor who has had a successful career, especially in the last few years. He seemed to be moaning* about how he wasn't as rich as people think they are, and made reference to the salaries of the cast of Friends. Which I interpreted as him being surprised that he's not as wealthy as he dreamed he'd be. He was talking in part in the context of the actors' strikes and that after several months of not working he was beginning to wonder how he'd pay his mortgage. I was on the side of the actors during the SAG actors' strike. But when a Hollywood star talks about their income not always matching their mortgage, I can't help wonder if he has a house in a fashionable part of LA with a pool, a wardrobe full of designer clothes and high end cars in the drive? And I do appreciate that many actors believe, possibly correctly, that if you want to be seen as a Hollywood star then you have to live the part off-screen as well as on. * I realise the apparent moaning may have been a bit of journalistic spin, but celebrity salary expectations often seem to be more about ego than whether or not they can pay their bills. I think I read the same article and couldn't help but roll my eyes - I think a Hollywood celebrity had a different interpretation of not being able to pay their mortgage than me (surely if anyone was literally unable to pay bills, they would look for alternative employment?). Whilst I don't think star salaries are a direct reason for high ticket prices, they are definitely a contributing factor to the very high running costs of a show. |
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Post by Deleted on Apr 1, 2024 21:31:18 GMT
A lot of star names are multi millionaires so can afford to do stage work. The likes of SJP and Brian Cox must have earned themselves and their agents millions over the years so can pretty much say what they will and will not do.
Say a rising star like the chap out of Saltburn his agent would likely want to push him to max out his earnings whilst he is hot but it should not be at the risk of turning down some quality roles that could lead to good reviews or possible awards.
Stars to be honest with social media can be doing "highbrow less well paid" roles but can earn a load through doing a few posts for products so can get around the earnings drop that way.
Or they do what a lot of bands/singers do and have a Ltd company so whether they are touring or recording can draw an equal income all the time.
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Post by harrietcraig on Apr 2, 2024 13:32:23 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Apr 2, 2024 13:48:27 GMT
I'd like to see more general offers being made available to all theatre fans. It just seems to be the U25's who get the great offers to encourage new fans to shows. I'd like a certain amount of cheaper tickets for each show or venues like ATG do one cheaper show per West End run for their regulars.
Reward loyalty as a lot of people who love shows and post on here are the backbone of theatre attendees and will give new shows a chance. Dynamic pricing I'm not opposed to as Saturday night should be more than midweek matinee and supply and demand will shift.
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Post by lynette on Apr 2, 2024 17:18:35 GMT
Thanks for posting this. Seems Covid responsible in the same way the Black Death was for end of feudal system 😂 scarcity of resources and people knowing their worth. |
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Post by lynette on Apr 2, 2024 17:20:06 GMT
I'd like to see more general offers being made available to all theatre fans. It just seems to be the U25's who get the great offers to encourage new fans to shows. I'd like a certain amount of cheaper tickets for each show or venues like ATG do one cheaper show per West End run for their regulars. Reward loyalty as a lot of people who love shows and post on here are the backbone of theatre attendees and will give new shows a chance. Dynamic pricing I'm not opposed to as Saturday night should be more than midweek matinee and supply and demand will shift. You’ve gotta encourage the U25s. Or theatre will just dwindle away. But yes to more discounts for old ‘uns, say Monday/Tuesday nights and the matinees. Thank you |
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Post by marob on Apr 3, 2024 12:52:27 GMT
I’ve just seen a video advert on Instagram advertising a seat filling service. I thought the whole point of them was they were supposed to be under the radar?
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Post by Dave B on Apr 3, 2024 13:02:15 GMT
I’ve just seen a video advert on Instagram advertising a seat filling service. I thought the whole point of them was they were supposed to be under the radar? They still need customers to cover their costs. There is also the discounted tickets that Central Tickets really got into and is now showing up elsewhere too. |
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Post by n1david on Apr 3, 2024 13:50:24 GMT
I think the fact that they exist is public knowledge and I've seen several adverts for seat-filling services... what's supposed to be hush-hush is what shows are using their services, and at what levels. Some of them have convoluted ticket pickup arrangements off-site so that no-one at the theatre could know for certain if you bought a heavily discounted ticket or a regular one. Most such services have strict rules that you shouldn't sit in your seat and talk about the seat-filling service ("I can't believe we got to see this for a fiver!") But I think the fact they exist is generally known and if one searches for "seat filling services uk" plenty of them show up.
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Post by Distant Dreamer... on Apr 17, 2024 18:34:16 GMT
Is anyone else concerned about the prices also charged in certain regional venues for shows? 😤
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Post by Deleted on Apr 17, 2024 23:20:05 GMT
Is anyone else concerned about the prices also charged in certain regional venues for shows? 😤 Top price tickets for Player Kings is £170 for a package seat (Ambassador Diamond Lounge Experience - Includes entry to the Ambassador Lounge, 3 glasses of Grande Marque Champagne, savoury nibbles, ice cream, and a programme) at Alex in Birmingham. The next price down is £120 so the pure price of the best seat would probably be £140/145. I know it is a long play, limited run, we don't know how many more times even Sir Ian will continue to tour so it is "an event". But for a July week when a number of likely theatre goers could well be away, doing other things the top prices do look steep as it is the same price for the matinees. There are some nice seats at £55-75 which I think is a fair price so will hopefully get one of these. |
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Post by BurlyBeaR on Apr 18, 2024 11:46:20 GMT
ATG mucked up a presale the other day and I managed to get a VIP package for £30. By lunchtime it had been corrected and was £90. I wouldn’t dream of buying a package under normal circs, I dont need to be preoccupied by a “nibble box” or sitting in their dreary lounge but I’ll enjoy the two drinks and programme knowing, for once, I didn’t get shafted by ATG.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 18, 2024 14:00:53 GMT
ATG mucked up a presale the other day and I managed to get a VIP package for £30. By lunchtime it had been corrected and was £90. I wouldn’t dream of buying a package under normal circs, I dont need to be preoccupied by a “nibble box” or sitting in their dreary lounge but I’ll enjoy the two drinks and programme knowing, for once, I didn’t get shafted by ATG. Congrats on getting that fantastic deal BB. |
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Post by BurlyBeaR on Apr 22, 2024 14:29:34 GMT
Well,I spoke too soon. ATG have emailed to say the VIP experience will not be honoured but I can keep the seat for the price I paid. That’s big of them. ATG you can stick your nibbles where the sun don’t shine!
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Post by ceebee on Apr 22, 2024 15:11:48 GMT
Well,I spoke too soon. ATG have emailed to say the VIP experience will not be honoured but I can keep the seat for the price I paid. That’s big of them. ATG you can stick your nibbles where the sun don’t shine! Take the biggest noisiest bag of crunchy snacks you can find and then also enjoy the notoriety of featuring in the "Bad Behaviour" thread. |
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Post by talkingheads on Apr 22, 2024 20:50:11 GMT
Well,I spoke too soon. ATG have emailed to say the VIP experience will not be honoured but I can keep the seat for the price I paid. That’s big of them. ATG you can stick your nibbles where the sun don’t shine! Doesn't this go against the terms of sale or something to that effect? Not saying you'll get anywhere but if you bought a VIP experience and they aren't honouring it I'd have thought it could get them in trouble with consumer rights if you report it to the ombudsman. To be honest anything to give ATG a bit of flack is worth it. You didn't cheat them to get the price you paid, it's their fault. Even if all that's at stake is a box of nibbles, it's the principle. |
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Post by BurlyBeaR on Apr 22, 2024 21:15:20 GMT
Well,I spoke too soon. ATG have emailed to say the VIP experience will not be honoured but I can keep the seat for the price I paid. That’s big of them. ATG you can stick your nibbles where the sun don’t shine! Doesn't this go against the terms of sale or something to that effect? Not saying you'll get anywhere but if you bought a VIP experience and they aren't honouring it I'd have thought it could get them in trouble with consumer rights if you report it to the ombudsman. To be honest anything to give ATG a bit of flack is worth it. You didn't cheat them to get the price you paid, it's their fault. Even if all that's at stake is a box of nibbles, it's the principle. Indeed. |
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Post by edi on Apr 22, 2024 21:24:37 GMT
Well,I spoke too soon. ATG have emailed to say the VIP experience will not be honoured but I can keep the seat for the price I paid. That’s big of them. ATG you can stick your nibbles where the sun don’t shine! Doesn't this go against the terms of sale or something to that effect? Not saying you'll get anywhere but if you bought a VIP experience and they aren't honouring it I'd have thought it could get them in trouble with consumer rights if you report it to the ombudsman. To be honest anything to give ATG a bit of flack is worth it. You didn't cheat them to get the price you paid, it's their fault. Even if all that's at stake is a box of nibbles, it's the principle. According to Citizens Advise website, it all depends on whether you have a 'contract' with the online seller. Not sure whether purchasing theatre tickets you enter a contract or not but even is you do so, they can cancel the purchase if you should've noticed the genuine mistake. In this case it's clear that you did notice it as you were purchasing it. Regardless, I think it's poor form not letting you have that nibble and fizz. "If you have a contract, the company can’t usually cancel your order, even if they realise they’ve sold you something at the wrong price. They’ll only be able to cancel it if it was a genuine and honest mistake on their part that you should’ve noticed. If you don’t have a contract and someone realises they’ve told you the wrong price, they can cancel your order." |
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Post by talkingheads on Apr 22, 2024 22:32:22 GMT
Doesn't this go against the terms of sale or something to that effect? Not saying you'll get anywhere but if you bought a VIP experience and they aren't honouring it I'd have thought it could get them in trouble with consumer rights if you report it to the ombudsman. To be honest anything to give ATG a bit of flack is worth it. You didn't cheat them to get the price you paid, it's their fault. Even if all that's at stake is a box of nibbles, it's the principle. According to Citizens Advise website, it all depends on whether you have a 'contract' with the online seller. Not sure whether purchasing theatre tickets you enter a contract or not but even is you do so, they can cancel the purchase if you should've noticed the genuine mistake. In this case it's clear that you did notice it as you were purchasing it. Regardless, I think it's poor form not letting you have that nibble and fizz. "If you have a contract, the company can’t usually cancel your order, even if they realise they’ve sold you something at the wrong price. They’ll only be able to cancel it if it was a genuine and honest mistake on their part that you should’ve noticed. If you don’t have a contract and someone realises they’ve told you the wrong price, they can cancel your order." To be fair it sounds like they haven't cancelled the sale. Just not honouring the VIP. This is probably more ethics than legality but still worth kicking up a fuss about. Surely the onus is on ATG to notice the mistake not the buyer. |
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Post by TallPaul on Apr 23, 2024 12:51:02 GMT
ATG made an invitation to treat. BurlyBeaR made an offer, which ATG initially accepted. From the ATG terms and conditions, which were updated as recently as 05.04.2024: " 1.1 Your contract for the purchase of Ticket(s) is formed as soon as We have processed Your payment and will expire immediately after the performance of the Event for which You purchased Ticket(s). However, any purchases are subject to payment card verification and other security checks and Your transaction may be cancelled if it has not passed Our verification processes.
3.1The price of the Ticket shall be the price set at the time We accept Your order. All advertised prices are inclusive of any applicable taxes and per Ticket booking fee (where applicable) but exclusive of any per transaction, collection or delivery fee.
21.1 Any complaints about a Ticket holder’s seating or ability to view a production should be made promptly to the Venue management either before or during the performance.
21.2 If any dispute arises out of these Terms and Conditions, We will attempt to settle it. We will acknowledge all customer correspondence within 24 hours and We shall use Our reasonable endeavours to consult or negotiate in good faith, and attempt to reach a just and equitable settlement satisfactory to both parties within 5 working days. Although this does not restrict your rights to pursue court proceedings, if we are unable to settle any dispute by negotiation within 21 days and you are not satisfied with our final response, you may attempt to settle it through Alternative Dispute Resolution and can contact The Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR). We are members of STAR and they provide a free and approved dispute resolution service for customers of STAR members.
You can reach STAR on 01904 234 737, or +44 1904 234737 if calling from outside the UK (10am-5pm Monday to Friday), or by completing the complaints form or visit www.star.org.uk/dispute-resolution/. If you’d prefer to write to them, their address is:
Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers
Blake House
18 Blake Street
York YO1 8QG" In ye olden days, there would often be an 'Error and Omissions Excepted' clause in contracts, but I can't seen one in ATG's, though I have only given them a quick scan. |
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Post by BurlyBeaR on Apr 26, 2024 14:12:54 GMT
They’ve backed down. Original offer reinstated at price paid. Thanks for the comments everyone!
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Post by talkingheads on Apr 26, 2024 19:27:06 GMT
They’ve backed down. Original offer reinstated at price paid. Thanks for the comments everyone! Brilliant! After the amount of aggravation ATG have caused over the years, it's lovely to see someone win! |
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