> We reserve the right to change the method of delivery to Will Call (pick-up at the box office) at any time after purchase. If we make this change the ticket(s) may be picked up within 2 hours of the show’s start time and a photo ID and the charge card used for the purchase will be required to claim the ticket.
This is the same as your "use a registration system and personalised tickets" solution, except without forcing everybody to go through all that hassle. It seems he's chosen to let a few scalpers have a chance, instead of ruining the experience for everybody.
Also, when you attempt to buy the tickets, (at least for the SF venue), your only delivery method is print at home. It looks like your implied fears that he doesn't know what he's doing are unfounded.