I was referred to this event from my friend, who told me to apply as a seat filler position. This was something I was unfamiliar with – for televised shows, organizers wanted an illusion of a full audience so designated “seat fillers” would take up empty seats. Sounds to me like a free concert. And it was!
We arrived at the First Ontario Place in Hamilton around 4:30pm. By that time, a huge lineup circled around the building – they were all seat filler! It was also interesting to note how dressed up everyone was! Most people were suited up or wearing evening dresses, which was atypical of the 20s something crowd.
Once we got inside, each seat filler was checked for their ID and given a wristband for identification. The 500 or so seat fillers filed into a warehouse basement waiting for further instructions.
Here was our “lounge”
The show was slated to start at 7pm, so all the seat fillers was positioned right by the entrance to the stadium, waiting for regular attendees to arrive. Many of us took some breaks and wandered around the venue.
This was the main entrance for attendees.
As the attendees started coming in, things got crowded real fast.
The official show started, which was a seated concert. A few artists opened up (I can’t remember) and awards were given out through the night, for best album, best song, best new artists, etc.
Since this event was televised live, between every act, there was a commercial break. Sets were quickly changed during this time, as well attendees got opportunity to visit washroom or buy some food.
I was really only interested in The Weeknd performing. He came up nearing the end, singing the chart topping, 50 shades featured, “Earned It”. Too bad it was just the one song, but he still killed it.
Those people with the nosebleed seat are real lucky!
I was also pleased to see Deadmau5, who closed the night off with a song.
This was the volunteer lounge, a slightly better upgrade than our “warehouse lounge” for seat fillers. Volunteers were also fed.
The come down after the concert.
