bums in seats
(also "butts in seats" and "butts in the seats"): spectators who have been drawn into a theatre or other entertainment by a low-brow, mass-appeal production. A reference to the economic demand on entertainment business producers to attract paid attendance.
"We need a show that will put bums in seats."
Bums on Seats
In Britain it is another word for an audience
Perform on a stage with the bums on seats staring at you.