You've decided to spend an evening at the theatre, but wait, you've never been before. Or you have, but you've never been taught the proper rules of being an audience member. Here are some of the most basic and important things to remember when going to see a show - amateur or professional.
1. Dress appropriately. A night out at the theatre is a formal affair. Slacks, a nice blouse or button down, and your best shoes are all that are necessary. Dresses, skirts, blazers/sport jackets, and suits are also welcome.
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2. Sit in your correct, assigned seat. Your ticket contains your seat number. That is your seat, so please sit in it. Do not seat-hop on the chance that other seats will be empty. If you are unhappy with your seat choice, consider buying tickets ahead of time instead of at the door.
3. Use the facilities before the show begins. Make sure you know where the restrooms are in the theatre and try to use them before the performance starts. You can also take the opportunity to use the restroom during intermission. But be aware that not every show has an intermission and the restrooms are usually packed during this time.
4. Refrain from making unnecessary noises during the performance. Of course, laugh, applaud, (and perhaps cry), when appropriate. But silly or loud comments are disruptive. If you must ask a question or feel the burning urge to point something out to a companion, quietly get their attention and whisper.
5. Turn off your cell phone. There is nothing more distracting than a phone going off or shining light coming from the audience. It annoys the audience and the stage performers. If you turn your phone off, there will be no chance of it accidentally ringing. If it does happen to go off, quickly silence it and turn it off. Do not answer it. That is rude.
6. Know the appropriate times to leave your seat. If you must leave your seat during the performance, do so at the end of a song while the audience applauds (if you are attending a musical) or during a scene transition, usually when the theatre momentarily darkens or when music plays off the characters. This applies to when re-entering the theatre, as well. At some theaters, ushers will not let you back in until they deem it acceptable. Make sure you are aware of the theatre's rules and plan accordingly.
7. Applaud for everyone. When the show ends and the performers come out for curtain call or final bow, please applaud for everyone. This includes performers, the orchestra (if there is live music), and lighting and sound. The performers will usually indicate where the orchestra and lighting and sound are. Everyone in the theatre works hard and deserves equal enthusiasm at the end of each performance.
8. Be aware of the effects used. Some shows use fog machines which can agitate sensitive eyes and those with respiratory problems. Shows may also use strobe lights, which can be harmful to those with sensitive eyes or other medical conditions. They could also use loud sounds, like fake gunshots, which can be startling to some.
9. Consider the age appropriateness of the show. Unless the performance is meant for young children, it is generally not a good idea to bring them along. Shows can be long and children can often become easily restless or bored.
Now that you know how to behave during a night out to the theatre, enjoy the show! Live theatre is one of the many great art forms and is one everyone should experience!
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
Taylor Swift in a purple coat, captivating the crowd on stage.
Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
