Theatre Etiquette for Performers, Parents, and Patrons

Theatre is a confluence of art, emotion, and live storytelling that offers an escape into worlds unknown and stories untold. It's a place where performers and audience alike partake in a shared experience; ephemeral, fleeting, yet eternal in memory. This collective journey relies heavily on a mutual understanding and respect for theatre etiquette. For performers, parents, and patrons, observing these unwritten rules not only enhances the enjoyment of the show but also upholds the dignity and seamless flow of the performance. 

“Suspension of Disbelief” is the foundation of engaging with art. It allows us to let go of reality for a moment and buy into the reality of the show. Respect for the process and the performers protects that immersion, and prevents a poor experience for the audience and cast. By following just a few guidelines beyond being quiet in the theatre and sitting in the right seat, patrons get their money’s worth, parents get to see their students shine, and performers get the satisfaction of a show well-performed.

10 Common Theatre Etiquette Rules

1. Dress Appropriately: While dress codes have relaxed in many theatres, it's still important to dress neatly and appropriately as a sign of respect for the performers and the venue. This doesn't necessarily mean formal attire but attendees should aim for a clean and presentable appearance.

2. Avoid Talking During the Performance: Conversations should be saved for intermission or after the performance. Talking during the show is distracting to both the performers and other audience members and detracts from the immersive experience of live theatre.

3. Refrain from Singing Along or Reciting Lines: Even if you know the score or script by heart, resist the urge to sing along or whisper lines. This can be very distracting and disrespectful to the performers and those around you who have come to hear the artists on stage.

4. Limit Movement In and Out of Your Seat: If you must leave your seat, try to do so before the performance starts or during intermission to minimize disruptions. If an emergency requires you to leave, do so as quietly and discreetly as possible.

5. Unwrap Candies or Cough Drops Before the Show: Unwrapping noisy packaging can be a surprising disturbance during a quiet or critical moment of the performance. Plan ahead by unwrapping any lozenges or snacks before the curtain rises.

6. Don't Block Others' Views: Be mindful of how your actions might affect others' ability to see the performance. Avoid leaning forward too much or wearing hats that might obstruct the view of people sitting behind you.

7. Wait for a Break to Return to Your Seat: If you must leave your seat, wait for an appropriate break in the performance or intermission to return. This helps minimize disruption for other audience members and performers.

8. Show Appreciation with Applause: Applaud at the appropriate times to show your appreciation for the performers' work. Standing ovations, when warranted, are a great way to acknowledge an exceptional performance.

9. Dispose of Trash Properly: Keep the theatre clean by disposing of any trash in the appropriate receptacles. Leaving trash in the theatre is disrespectful to the staff and the next audience.

10. Follow the Theatre's Policies: Each theatre may have its own specific set of rules and policies, such as mask-wearing or specific protocols due to health concerns. Being aware of and adhering to these policies shows respect for the venue and its efforts to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all

Next, let's delve into some specifics of theatre etiquette across different members of the theatrical community, and why theatre etiquette is not just a courtesy but a cornerstone of the theatre experience.

For Performers

Respect for Fellow Performers and Artists

The theatre is not so different from a team sport, where each member's performance impacts the whole. Lateness, disruption of class or rehearsal, rudeness, and lack of effort can all negatively impact the experience for oneself, other dancers, teachers and staff, and, ultimately, the audience. Bringing one's best self to class and rehearsal, leaving drama at the door, and respecting the creative process will help preserve the magic of live performance for performers and patrons alike. Keep in mind that directors, costume designers, lighting techs, and stagehands are all theatre artists, without whom the show could not go on. What happens between the drapes is just the tip of the theatrical iceberg and that one evening of entertainment rests on the collaborative creative energy of the entire company.

Respect for Oneself

Dance is an incredible, holistic way to care for the body, mind, and spirit with a single activity. Just enrolling in class already shows a level of personal respect, but it can’t stop there. A performer's body needs to be cared for just like any musical instrument or creative tool. Physically, a dancer should keep their body well-fed, hydrated, clean, and exercised. Dance checks the exercise box, and it’s up to each student to eat well, maintain hygiene, and drink plenty of water. Mentally, dancers need a clear mind to perform at their best. Many artists use their art as a means to maintain their mental health and dance can be very therapeutic. Still, developing the tools one needs when times get hard makes show week that much easier. Finally, dance and theatre can be great ways to express meaning and communicate from deep in the spirit. Keeping a spirit of collaboration, openness, and artistry elevates a performance beyond the physical actions taken on stage to that magical realm where art resides.

Punctuality for Rehearsals and Performances

Punctuality speaks volumes about one's dedication and respect for the craft and colleagues. A performer rushing in at the last minute can throw off the balance and energy of the entire ensemble. Imagine the ripple effect on the cast's morale and performance quality if a key actor misses their cue because they were late to a dress rehearsal. Time is valuable, and performers are expected to respect one another’s time by honoring their commitments and communicating when unavoidable situations arise. 

One exception to this rule is the hotly debated “late start.” Many theatre professionals consider starting a performance exactly on time to be rude to the audience, who may have trouble arriving at the theatre and finding their seats on time. That said, it is still expected that everyone is ready to start at the official curtain time.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Studio and Backstage Area

The studio and backstage area, though unseen by the audience, is the backbone of any production or company. A cluttered backstage can lead to accidents or misplaced props, while a messy studio can disrupt creative flow and compromise safety. Respect for a performing space goes a long way toward being invited to use that space again in the future. Respecting rehearsal space ensures that the entire cast gets the training and practice they need to put on the best performances possible.

For Parents

Guidelines for Drop-off and Pick-up Times

Timeliness is crucial, especially for young performers who depend on their parents for transportation. Arriving late or leaving early can cause a dancer to miss crucial choreography, cast bonding time, and other announcements that may be made at the beginning or end of rehearsal. Having cast members or students in the space outside of their called time can create logistical challenges for the production team. Pay close attention to class times and call times, and communicate early if plans need to change.

Appropriate Times for Photography and Recording

While capturing memories is important, flash photography or recording during a performance or rehearsal can distract performers and audience members. There's a poignant moment during a ballet where the lead dancer leaps gracefully, only to be startled by a flash from the audience, breaking her concentration and potentially endangering her safety. Most productions will take responsibility for photographing or recording performances, leaving the parents free to suspend their disbelief and immerse themselves in the performance without the distraction of a screen. Fully investing attention in a performance is a sure way to show cast members that they are valued. Engaging without distraction allows patrons and parents to tap into the feeling of community unique to a live audience.

Encouraging a Supportive Atmosphere Among Students

Student and performer health and safety should be the top priority of any performing group. This includes mental, physical, and emotional wellness, and a parent is the first line of defense against negative experiences. Make sure students are well-fed and rested. Encourage students to try new things and try things again. Conversations on the car ride home are especially important to cultivate a positive attitude towards class and rehearsal. Most dancers that quit dance quit during the car ride home. Your faculty will do their best to maintain positivity during class and rehearsal, but there are many students and often only a couple of staff members. If a student misses a turn or a cue, they can hold onto that mistake and, instead of learning from it, let it push them away from what they love. Remind them that these strong feelings are an indication of passion and that mistakes are a necessary, if uncomfortable, part of the growing process.

Encouraging a Supportive Atmosphere Among Parents

The competitive nature of theatre can sometimes seep into the audience. Parents discussing their child's performance loudly during intermission can inadvertently create a tense environment. Encouraging words and shared pride in all children's accomplishments foster a community spirit, enhancing the experience for everyone involved. Online, offline, in-person, or in passing, a misplaced comment can be poison to a cast, spreading from student to student, sometimes among staff and other parents, coloring the experience for everyone. Trust the creative team and support their decisions, whether for class placement, casting, training, or choreography. Communicate any issues openly, honestly, and directly with the leaders of the production or studio and be open to the reasons for their decisions. Avoid the rumor mill at all costs.

For Patrons

Arriving on Time and Silencing Electronic Devices

Entering the theatre post-curtain or a ringing phone can not only disrupt the immersive experience for other audience members but can also distract performers. Both doors opening and phones lighting up will create light in the house that performers aren’t expecting. A dancer timing out a silent section of their piece only to be thrown off their count by a Taylor Swift ringtone emanating from a patron's bag breaks the spell of the performance for everyone. 

Applauding at Appropriate Times

Applause is the lifeblood of live performance, a tangible sign of appreciation for the performers' hard work. However, misplaced applause can disrupt the flow of the show. For example, clapping during a quiet, tense moment in a drama can undercut the emotional impact intended by the actors and director. Clapping along to the beat of an upbeat song can seem like a fun way for an audience to participate in the performance. Keep in mind, though, that the musical beat is incredibly important to the performance and the performers, so the rhythm-challenged would be best served to keep their hands in their laps. During higher energy moments, feel free to show your support for an impressive performance and always clap during bows.

Respectful Interaction with Performers and Staff

Post-show interactions should be respectful and considerate. Rushing to the stage door for autographs without acknowledging the performers' need for space or ignoring staff directions for exit routes can mar an otherwise splendid theatre outing. Performers traditionally take a moment to decompress after a show before greeting their fans. Facing the mass of people waiting in the theatre lobby can be intimidating for any performer, but especially for younger or newer performers. Be patient, let them breathe, and they’ll be much happier to sign an autograph, take a picture, and receive your glowing praise.

Conclusion

Theatre etiquette, a tapestry of respect, punctuality, and consideration, ensures that the magic of live performance is preserved for all involved. For performers, it's about respecting the craft and their colleagues. For parents, it's about supporting not just their child but the entire production. For patrons, it's about being an active, respectful participant in the shared experience of theatre. By adhering to these guidelines, each performance can reach its full potential, leaving lasting memories for everyone involved. Theatre is not just an art form; it's a communal experience, and by observing these simple rules of etiquette, we all play our part in bringing the story to life.