What is a Guest List?

A guest list is the list of people allowed into an event without buying a ticket, with places given by the artist, promoter or venue and checked at the door against ID. At concerts it is often shortened to GL, and each guest may be allowed a plus-one.

How a guest list works

Most concerts handle guest lists the same way:

  1. Allocation: during the advance, each act is given a number of places, such as ten for the headliner and four for support.
  2. Names in: the act's tour manager sends names by a set deadline, often late afternoon on show day.
  3. Merged list: the box office combines artist, promoter and venue lists into one.
  4. Collection: guests give their name and show ID at the box office or guest list window and get a wristband, ticket or stamp.

Combining lists from many acts and teams is easier in one place, which is why festivals and venues often manage guest lists in Crescat.

Guest list vs accreditation

A guest list gives free entry to audience areas, usually as a favour. Accreditation gives working access to restricted areas to people with a role at the event. Some guest list places include an after-show or backstage pass, which turns them into a type of accreditation.

What to include in each guest list entry

  • Full name, matching the guest's ID
  • Number of plus-ones
  • Who requested the place (artist, promoter, venue)
  • Access level: general admission, after-show or VIP
  • Collection point and any notes

Frequently asked questions

What does +1 mean on a guest list?

A +1 means the guest can bring one extra person, who doesn't need to be named. A +2 allows two. Venues usually admit plus-ones only with the named guest.

How do you get on a guest list?

Ask someone with places to give: the act's tour manager or manager, the promoter or the venue. Places are limited, so requests are usually made well before the show day deadline.

Do guest list places count towards capacity?

Yes. Every guest counts towards the venue's licensed capacity, so promoters limit guest numbers on busy or sold-out shows. Unused places are often released for sale if a show is close to selling out.

Related terms