Our American friends were denied one of the biggest attractions that we, Europeans had during 2005 tour!!! What am I talking about? Lottery!!! It's really unfair- I feel really sorry for US folks as they won't be able to experience this... Don't you guys think they deserve it? :)
Actually quite a few of the venues in the US have a lottery system set up. When you arrive at the box office you get a number. When your number is called you buy your tickets. This keeps people from camping out and gives everyone an equal chance at good seats.
Wayyyy back in the 70's alot of concerts here (US)were general admission - in fact my first Queen concert in '76 was gen admin.
Some problems that developed from this is that once the gates were opened there was an abundance of pushing/shoving to get inside for better vantage points...AND once the show started many of the folks in the rear would consequently push their way forward. Both of these sceanrios led to some injuries/damage. Some fans were actually killed by a racious crowd at a Who Concert as the arena doors were opened.
Obviously the authorities, local politicians, police etc didn't like this one bit - so assigned seating allows them some form of crowd control and its the norm for larger venues.
ps. Back then the best concert seats were as a result of sleeping on the sidewalk, in line for tix overnite - what's a lottery?