For decades, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) have been known for unforgettable performances. Now, they’re taking the same care they bring to the stage and applying it to their patrons’ digital experiences by launching SeatMe’s 3D virtual seat selection.

Stepping Into the Hall Before the Music Begins

The ticket-buying journey used to involve a leap of faith. Patrons would click on a seat map, hoping the view would be what they imagined. Now, with SeatMe, audiences at both SLSO and CSO can virtually step into the hall before they ever check out.

• Explore SLSO’s Powell Hall from every angle
• Experience CSO’s Orchestra Hall as if you’re already in your seat

This immersive view removes uncertainty, helping patrons choose confidently, and making the ticket purchase part of the excitement leading up to the performance.

 

A Patron-Centered Ticketing Journey

SeatMe was built around the idea that buying a ticket shouldn’t be a transaction, it should be an experience. For SLSO and CSO, that means:

• Transparency: Patrons know exactly what their view will be, whether they’re close to the stage or in the upper balcony.
• Flexibility: SeatMe supports subscriptions, packages, and single tickets, giving audiences options for how they engage.
• Accessibility: Custom ADA seat messaging and behavior ensure that every patron, regardless of ability, can find the right seat with ease.
• Personalization: From price type rules to membership upsells, the experience adapts to each buyer.

At the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, early results show just how much SeatMe is enhancing engagement and driving revenue. Since launch, 16% of purchases have used the interactive seat view, and this group accounts for an impressive 23% of total ticket revenue. Even more telling, patrons who engage with the interactive experience have a 58% higher average order value (AOV). Ultimately, a clear indicator is that when buyers can visualize their experience, they’re more confident and willing to invest in premium seating.

 

Seamless Behind the Scenes

While patrons enjoy a richer journey, both orchestras benefit from a smoother process for staff, fewer administrative headaches, and a platform built to scale for the future. With detailed 3D renderings created by 3D Digital Venue, SeatMe gives patrons a true-to-life view of each hall before purchasing, while remaining fully integrated with Tessitura and compatible with both TNEW and full API implementations.

Further providing a flexible, scalable solution that enhances the patron experience and aligns seamlessly with both venues’ operational goals.

Tradition Meets Innovation

By adopting SeatMe, SLSO and CSO are showing how tradition and innovation can harmonize. These world-class orchestras are redefining what it means to welcome an audience, not just in the concert hall, but from the very first click.

“We’re honored to partner with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as they redefine the patron digital experience,” said Brian McGovern, Partner at iMedia. “SeatMe introduces a new level of engagement and excitement to the ticketing process, allowing patrons to visualize their view before purchase and feel a deeper connection to the performance ahead.”

Ready to see how SeatMe can transform your patrons’ ticket-buying experience? Learn more about SeatMe and schedule a personalized demo at www.imediainc.com/seatme.