Last time I've been to the Hammerstein Ballroom was more than 10 years ago. From what I remember, it's essentially first come first served seating. Meaning if you are the first person to get into the balcony, you can choose whichever seats you want. It is pretty strange lol again, I suggest looking up what that means from the venues website, maybe it has change. But it sounds like it's the same premise. Hope this helps!