“I asked the ticket agent what the extra fees paid for, and he smiled awkwardly and rolled his eyes.”

“Dear PoPville,

I have recently, cautiously, enjoyed returning to live theater performance. One venue this weekend had a nice offer for same-day seats at an accessible price “plus fees.” After making the trip and waiting in line the fees turned out to be nearly 25% more.

I asked the ticket agent what they paid for, and he smiled awkwardly and rolled his eyes. No explanation on the website either. Additional charges for paying online, or maybe during restoration of a historic building, are familiar, but if no consumer can opt out anytime anywhere, shouldn’t that be part of the offered, advertised total? I don’t name the theater because I appreciate overall what they do and the gotcha charge seems very widespread. But perspective from anyone familiar with theaters or consumer protection laws could educate a lot of people.”