Well, I think the cost of shows has a lot to do with the number of people that are involved in putting them on. Besides the artist, promoters, a venue...you've got the roadies and everyone who works for the band. Probably some sort of union workers. Health care costs, unemployment insurance...all that pricey stuff.
And....people shell out the cash to go...
I won't go to a show anymore unless it's a big time event. I'll see Bruce Cockburn whenever he comes to town. But he's very low-cost and worth more than what they charge.
My husband HAS to go see Rush whenever they come to town. I don't even ask him what the ticket price is anymore - I think he uses part of his annual bonus to go. He asked if I wanted to go this time. I gave him a blank "are you effing kidding?" look.