Definition of the word general admission

The term "general admission" originated in the context of theatrical and cultural performances in the 19th century. Back then, theaters would reserve a portion of the seating for privileged patrons, such as royalty, high society, and wealthy businessmen. These individuals would pay exorbitant fees to secure front-row seats and special treatment. However, for those who did not fall into these categories, seats were sold at a lower price, but they were often located in the back rows of the theater or in the balconies. These seats were referred to as "general admission" to distinguish them from the premium seating. The idea behind this system was to ensure that the most affluent patrons were assured of an unobstructed view, while the less well-off could still attend the performance without breaking the bank. Over time, "general admission" came to be used in a broader sense, applying to any event, such as concerts, sporting events, and exhibitions, where all attendees are sold tickets at a standard price, with no preference given for seating or other perks.