What is Theatre Etiquette?

Have you ever been to see a show and there were people in the audience that stole your attention from the performers? Have you maybe been the person in the audience stealing the show? Here are some general guidelines and pro tips for making the most of your trip to the theatre!

#1 TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE

When you go to see a show...BE PRESENT! The actors, designers, and technicians have put in hours and hours of work to perform for YOU! Don't be the person who's phone rings as Macbeth contemplates what is in his heart against the desires of his wife. Do you want to be responsible for breaking that tension? The least you can do is silence and power down your devices, give them your attention, and be present in the moment with them. This is LIVE theatre!

#2 IS THERE A DRESS CODE?

You will never be turned away due to dressing too casually. Its best to visit the venue's website to see what might be appropriate attire. Keep in mind show rating too! Several shows encourage people to dress up as part of the fun, take The Rocky Horror Show for example. The first time I wore a lingerie bodysuit in public was to a showing at Sac State in Sacramento, CA. It was fun and I felt included in the show. But not all shows encourage this type of look. My advice? Do your research, wear something comfortable, and maybe bring something warm (theaters are notorious for being cold!)

#3 WHEN SHOULD I APPLAUDE?

Excellent question! If you’re at a musical, applaud following musical numbers. For musicals and straight plays, blackouts cue applause. If a scene ends, but there is no blackout, follow the lead of the rest of the audience.

#4 DON'T TALK OR SING DURING THE SHOW

Aside from a ringing cell phone, talking during a performance is the most distracting offense of theatre etiquette. Don’t turn to your neighbor and ask what’s going on. Hold out until intermission. The more you talk, the more the people around can’t hear the people onstage. If you’re attending a show with music you know and love, that’s great! But, save the singing for the car ride or your next Broadway karaoke night.

#5 KEEP YOUR COMMENTS NEUTRAL OR POSITIVE

Yes, you are entitled to your opinion, everyone is. BUT when you are still in (or nearby) the theatre, keep your words neutral and/or positive. I, myself, am guilty of this faux pas. One time, I went to a show and a woman overheard my husband and I talking about it and she asked my opinion. I gave the truth. She was the director's MOTHER! I didn't find out until a week later. And never again will that happen! YEESSHH! So, just be nice, there is always a time to express your opinion at a later time, theatre is a collaborative art form that encourages constructive criticism. But at the venue? No.