Bums on seats
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Connotation
In the UK, 'bums on seats' can imply that profit or popularity is prioritized over quality or content. 
The playwright was disheartened to discover the theatre only cared about getting more bums on seats.
Pro Tip 2/3Informal Usage
'Bums on seats' is an informal expression, so use it casually, not in formal writing or speech. 
We need a big name to draw bums on seats for the fundraiser, not fancy speeches.
Pro Tip 3/3Success Measurement
The phrase often measures success in terms of attendance, not the event's intrinsic value. 
Despite the mixed reviews, the festival sure got bums on seats.