Curious about how SFF operates.

[LondonCityNights]

I've been using, and deeply enjoying SFF theatre tickets for a long time now, and I've always been curious just how they operate. The cinema tickets I can understand - building word of mouth with previews, but the theatre tickets I'm less clear on.

Is it the case that if a show is not selling particularly well that the theatre will approach SFF with some comp tickets. I figure having bums on seats is important to the theatre, and people with comp tickets might b*y a drink or programme while there. Is it always a bad sign if a show has to go to SFF? Does the theatre have to p*y SFF for the privilege of giving out the free tickets to their show? Do the performers know that people are there on comp tickets, or is it more hush hush?

I kind of take the company for granted, but they are quite secretive in many ways.

[canadian_turtle]

I assume it's partly for the same reason as with cinema tickets: get word of mouth out if sales are not up to par yet as a positive buzz (the hopeful result) could sell more tickets. Adding to that, in a theatre it's particularly important to have "bums on seats" too. Both for the enjoyment of other audience members as well as for the actors on stage. After all, it can't be very encouraging or stimulating to play for a near empty theatre.

[andrew.falconer]

It is important though at the theatre ones to be respectful and not blab it out loud that you got your tickets free otherwise the p*ying members of the audience are going to get more than a little miffed I guess.