The idea of muse playing smaller clubs does sound appealing, but as you stated it does come with risks and massive dissapointment. yes the band do pull in big crowds, and everyone gets a chance to see them from miles away on a tiny stage in a huge stadium.
Whilst that does appeal to the masses, there is something special about being up close to be there for the music, and not necessarily for the production, in a club atmosphere where fans can go mental (come on who hasnt seen those old vids of gigs in clubs). And the band can get a more direct reaction from fans when they play guiding light, Fabri can show his appreciation with a #GuidingLightForItaly tshirt.
Agree there there would be a massive demand to see them at smaller shows, perhaps just 5-10 shows would cut it. Perhaps Charles could pick the winners from random for any .mu competition. Would there be a lot of really upset fans who wouldnt go? probably yes, but there would be other opportunities.
Oh and Niall, did that blogger get a reaction from FoB ? half of the tickets being only for fans is disgusting tbh when it was touted as a gig for fans.