Sam Fender is a local hero, known for championing the working-class spirit of the North East. Coming from a background where he openly discussed his struggles with money, it feels especially jarring for many that his ticket prices are now so high. Fans who have long connected with him due to his social realism and relatable lyrics about financial hardship now find it shocking that attending one of his shows could set them back £82. However, it’s important to note that ticket pricing isn’t solely controlled by the artist; managers, promoters, and venues play a significant role in setting these prices. In his defence, Fender made efforts to ensure that tickets for the Newcastle shows were only available to those with a North East postcode and priced them around £20 cheaper than tickets for other venues on his small tour.
It’s not just music events, though. Comedy shows, theatre productions, and other forms of live entertainment are following a similar pricing trend, pushing them out of reach for the average person.
The North East boasts a vibrant comedy and theatre scene, with the likes of Newcastle’s Theatre Royal and The Stand Comedy Club offering cultural experiences. But these venues aren’t immune to the inflationary pressures hitting the entertainment industry. As production costs rise and budgets soar higher, ticket prices are climbing too, leaving many to ask, “How much is too much?”
For students, this can feel like an even greater burden. With limited disposable income and ever-increasing living expenses, enjoying a night out at the theatre or a comedy gig may seem like a distant dream.
But all hope is not lost. If you’re a student craving a cultural fix without breaking the bank, there are several ways to catch live events at a fraction of the cost:
Student Discounts: Many venues offer discounted tickets to students. The Theatre Royal, for example, frequently has student pricing, especially for midweek shows.
Rush Tickets: Some venues release last-minute tickets at a lower price. It’s a bit of a gamble, but if you’re flexible, it can be a great way to catch a show on a budget.
Volunteer at Festivals: Volunteering at local festivals or gigs often comes with free entry to events in exchange for a few hours of your time. This is a win-win for students looking to save while enjoying live performances.
Look for Smaller Venues: Big-name acts come with big-ticket prices. Instead, consider supporting up-and-coming artists or smaller comedy gigs at venues like Bobiks or The Cluny, where ticket prices are generally more affordable and you can still experience some live music. Who knows, you might even find a new artist to admire.
Attend Free Events: Newcastle often hosts free events, from outdoor concerts in summer to fringe theatre performances. Keep an eye out for these!
It’s undeniable that live events bring communities together, offer escapism, and showcase the incredible talent of artists like Sam Fender. However, when ticket prices rise faster than incomes (especially for students with part-time jobs, who are working to live as well as have fun), it becomes an uncomfortable balancing act for many.
As we navigate the realities of a cost-of-living crisis, the entertainment industry will need to find ways to keep live events accessible, especially for the working class and students. Until then, it’s up to us to find creative ways to stay in the audience without breaking the bank.
