A live music venue i go to on a regular basis has allowed me to perfect a way to open groups of 5+ easily with fairly high rate of success. I've used it in other types of venues with the same success, and wanted to share it and get some feedback.

Open and have the group commit to low effort compliance test.

The layout of the venue was an important factor of discovering it. The venue I first started using this in has two floors. The ground floor is a bar with a pool table, and upstairs is the main stage and another bar. The entrance to upstairs is at the opposite side of the room from the only door in, and access to the smoking area. Next to the main door is a large table, sits four normally, but I've seen and opened groups of 9 that have moved seats.

This location is perfect for opening groups to ask them look after your drink.

I prefer solo gaming, and the layout works well for soloing with a group. Main group upstairs, can easily go downstairs on your own. Have a group that can come into the picture later for social proof. However, I have used it with a wing and it still works.

The task is simple enough, watch my drink while I go for a smoke. No effort required, put the drink on the table, collect it when you come back.

There have been many posts here that mention people like people more after they have done something for them. Asking a group of people to watch your drink is a low investment way to get a group to do something for you and allow you to open them with a valid reason.

When opening the group, you have to be at an energy level a little higher than theirs, and move it to one that suits your game when you have their full attention.

Once the group is open, move the conversation to what band they are there to see. I know a few bands that have player here before, so I usually lead into the conversation saying I know one of the bands, usually not mentioning that I know them personally, and that I don't know the others. The key here is to try and get everyone in the group to take part in the conversation. Let them talk for a little, being aware of the conversation about to dry up.

As everyone talks, telling you what band they are there to see, pay attention to the group dynamics; who is looking at who, who is laughing the most as each person is talking, how do they react to each other, who may be dating who. Game everyone at this point, and keep any eye on who is responding, showing IOIs. Kino the people you are next to, upper arms and shoulders. Guys and girls, treat then like old pals.

Depending on how big the group is, this might last a few minutes. I try to keep it down under 5, just don't let the conversation die.

To transition them to the next stage, tell them you need a favour, and ask them to look after my drink. Before anyone responds, say something along the lines of :

"Well, make sure someone doesn't steal it. Any one wants to, you know..."

And break out a cheeky smile. Usually someone in the group will respond with the remainder of the sentence about your drink being spiked. If its a girl, this is another opportunity to game her. Some people might joke they will put some in, you can also use this to game people.

I've also found that some people will sometimes join you for a smoke, I've had all the girls at a table get up and join me.

Go, enjoy your smoke.

If some of the group joins you, you have pretty much opened them. Enjoy and game away :)

When returning, join the group and thank them, act disappointed and try to drop out of the spot light. At this point, you should have a good idea of the group dynamics and who to talk to, using the knowledge of whatever band they seeing to continue a conversation.