I think that the early CBGB stage setup required similar manuvers to go to the restroom. Again I was never there but I did read a book about the club as well as "Please Kill Me" which is an oral account of the NYC punk scene from 1967-1979.
Yeah, it's a neat little dive. Ancient dented metal folding chairs--- the bar was a counter with a cooler behind it (beer and soda only) --- and occasionally during the set the band would "pass the hat."
Some good blues though, good enough to make you forget about your sore bum at least. :-)