A theatre in Oxford has defended its ticketing system after it was described as “dictatorial” by a dissatisfied customer.
Oxford’s Playhouse, which has welcomed stars such as Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Maggie Smith since it was opened in the 1930s, has launched a block-seating release strategy. The system sells tickets for certain areas of the theatre, with blocks at the front available first.
However, theatre lover Jacquie Pearce-Gervis complained after attempting to book a ticket for Driving Miss Daisy. She hoped to sit away from the stage, but was told only seats close to the front were on sale due to the block release.
In a letter to the theatre, reported by the Oxford Times, she wrote: “I consider you are being most dictatorial. The Oxford Playhouse is for the people of Oxford and not for your desires.”
In response, Playhouse director Louise Chantal said she was sorry Ms Pearce-Gavin had not been satisfied with her experience, and explained the block release system is common in the West End and the US.
She defended the theatre’s pricing and sales policy, adding that it was introduced to improve the atmosphere. She added that some shows’ tickets would still be released all at once and the new policy would be reviewed next year.
Ms Pearce-Gavin told the Oxford Times: “I don’t want people sitting in my lap and the first rows are very close. I want to be halfway up and see the whole show, and I like to be on the gangway.
“I go to the theatre most Saturdays: this is my money – I decide where I sit.
She added: “This time I will wait until the curtain goes up then move, but I do think it will put me off buying tickets there.”
IMAGE: OxfordPlayhouse
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