Rules of Theater Etiquette

Rules of Theater Etiquette

• Theater etiquette involves appropriate behavior during a performance.

Cell Phones

• Turning off or silencing cell phones:
  • In modern times, it's unrealistic to go to the theater without a cell phone due to emergencies.
  • Therefore, cell phones should be turned off or set to "Do Not Disturb".

Food and Drinks

• No food or drinks:
  • Traditionally, food and drinks were not allowed.
  • Some theaters now have ways around this, allowing for certain concessions.

Talking

• No talking:
  • Talking during the overture or during the performance is unacceptable.

Remaining Seated

• Stay seated:
  • Unless there's an emergency, audience members should remain seated to avoid obstructing the view of others.
  • Getting up and moving around is disruptive and annoying to other patrons.

Disturbances

• Avoid Disturbances:

  • Refrain from putting feet on the seats, as it is unhygienic.
  • Being on time is essential; being late is unacceptable.

• Late arrival:

  • If late, ushers may not allow entry, or entry may be delayed until a suitable break. Missing the beginning of the show, including the overture, is undesirable.

Photography

• No pictures:
  • Taking pictures distracts the actors due to the flashing lights.

Restroom Usage

• Restroom Breaks:
  • Use the restroom before the show to avoid getting up during the performance.

Noise

• No eating or loud noises:
  • Avoid eating, talking, or whispering loudly during the performance.
  • Refrain from unnecessary laughter or screaming during serious scenes.

Leaving

• Best time to leave:
  • The best time to leave the theater is during intermission.
  • Do not leave during the overture or a powerful monologue.

Applause

• When to Applaud:
  • Applaud during great moments, at the end of an act, or after a musical number.

Standing Ovation and Curtain Call

• End of Show:

  • At the end of the show, a standing ovation is given to honor the actors for a job well done.
  • The curtain call is when the actors come out and take their final bows.

• Appreciating Actors:

  • Actors perform eight times a week, which is physically and mentally demanding.
  • Standing for them is a gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication.