Wiltern Question...

[bridget]

Has anyone seen a show here before? I just checked CitySearch and read a bunch of reviews and it seems that a bunch of people had problems with the "multi-tier" system.  Something about the first 250 people getting a "pit" stamp - but after that, is the rest of the floor sectioned off as well? People were saying they had a hard time getting a sight line, and every time they tried to move, they ran into a bouncer saying, "you can't go here."

The flip side of those reviews was that everyone said it was stunningly beautiful and well worth it, you just need to know what you're doing. I'm taking two friends to their first MMJ show tonight and I don't want to ruin it for them because I don't know what I'm doing!

Help?

Thanks y'all :)

[ChiefOKONO]

if you get there early you can probably get a good spot.  the wiltern is strange though, there definitely is that security problem you can run into sometimes. but if you get into the pit area you'll be fine!  I think it's a great venue, i've seen a few shows there.

[bridget]

thanks chief - I asked my friends and they're not down with the "pit" - even though I explained that this isn't a "pit" like Fugazi has a "pit", but whatever. We're just gonna get there around eight (doors) and seat-of-the-pants it. I'm sure it'll be fine - thanks for the help! :)

[aguadulce]

If you still havent left for the show yet - i've been to the Wiltern about 10 times last year.    Before doors open the line will go around Denny's to the parking structure. even if you are that far back you can still get in the pit without problems.    Do this.

When you get inside
dont go to the bathroom
dont look at shirts or stand in line for shirts
there are two doors that go into the main area
take the door on the left
there will be a lineup all they way down to the stage
stand in line and you'll get down to where they give out the bracelets
even in the pit - there is plenty of room to be on your own on the sides without any one crowding you.  
we've been able to get into the pit on all the shows without any problem - just make sure you get in the buiding early enough.  

good luck and see you there.

[bridget]

ah - aguadulce! So sweet of you - I didn't get to read your instructions 'til this morning b/c I had already left for the show! Can I say though? I so wish I would've seen it b/c you were 100% correct and the Wiltern should post your easy how-to on their website. We were a couple blocks back outside, and then we got in and got a beer (mistake - and there were cocktail waitress down around the pit) had we not, we might have gotten a spot right against the first-tier partition, but we still got a GREAT place a couple people deep on the first tier back from the pit. There was plenty of room in the pit, we were just more comfy that 15 or so feet back... Perfect sight-line, didn't have to move all night.

Thanks again:)