INBOX: Mixed Seating at Concerts

by Anonymous

The following article comes to you with a lot of back and forth from me. Should I say something? Does anyone else feel the same way?

But then I saw the advertisement for the upcoming Zaka Concert, and it hit me. I would love to go to this concert; such an incredible lineup. There’s just one problem: there is no option for separate seating. (Dun, dun, dun, dun).

I think we can all agree that concerts are a blast; however, there are some – myself included – who do not do mixed seating.

I’m not writing this article to shame or judge others, Chas Veshalom. The point of a Jewish concert is the exact opposite. The Frierdiker Rebbe says that music is the pen of the soul. Music is supposed to bring us together. And trust me, it does! No wonder why all the big tzedaka campaigns come with live music. Music opens up our hearts!!

I’m bringing in a Halachic perspective in hope that maybe this article will reach the frum organizers of said concert/future concerts.

I’m not hating on those who do mixed seating; you do you. I’m only asking that I be able to do me too ;)

A Halachic Perspective

According to Halacha, “men and women are not allowed to sit together in an event. They need a mechitza.”

For sure, the same applies when there is singing and dancing involved. I know for one that I cannot sit like a stone by a good concert.

For those who choose to follow the above, there should be an option.

I know that it’s difficult, and family seating probably makes more sales, but please, for the sake of Halachah and all those who would love to participate, make a separate seating option.

Thank you!

https://asktherav.com/2806-2-are-men-and-women-allowed-to-sit-together-at-a-concert-event-etc

https://asktherav.com/if-i-am-going-to-a-concert-with-my-wife-can-i-sit-together-with-her-in-family-seating-or-do-we-have-to-sit-in-the-men-and-women-sections-separate