Everyone at some point will end up in the audience seats, whether it's the front row of the balcony, the last row of the orchestra, or that one seat that squeaks so loud you can hear it over just about everything. Every theater has that one seat.
Every performer has great gratitude towards their audience, as they are the reason actors are able to do what they love, and the audience should hold great respect to the performers. Here are just a few tips for when you happen to be the an audience member:
1. SHHHH PLEASE
This is basic knowledge, but maybe the most forgotten pieces of information. Excessive talking is distracting to surrounding people, so if you must talk, whisper. It should also be noted that constantly shushing someone is just as distracting.
2. SIT STRAIGHT
A theater's seats are designed so that everyone has a space that they can view the stage clearly from. If you're slouching or leaning to one side of your seat, you are probably blocking someone's view of the stage.
3. UNPLUG
Everyone can see your phone light. Oh, you turned it down? We can still see it. Put it away.
4. EAT UP
Many theaters allow food and drinks to be brought into the auditorium, but use this privilege cautiously. Open bottles and packaging before the show starts or before intermission ends. Avoid the dreaded crunching bag or munching away loudly. And if something drops or spills, please clean it up. The staff and crew will thank you.
5. COOTIE QUEEN
If you happen to have a case of the sniffles, but you just HAVE to see Book of Mormon, then make sure you stock up on tissues and cough drops and anything else you'll need. You're in a closed in space with many people, and two hours is enough for anyone around you to catch what you have too.
6. THE ESSENTIALS
All you really need to go see a show is your ticket, but usually people bring a little more. Make sure everything you have can be easily stored under your sets or is comfortable in your lap. Remember that people will be getting up and coming back from their seats, so make sure you have room to shift and move for them to get around you.
7. STUDY UP
Know if the show you're seeing has audience participation. It's always more fun when the audience knows when and what to say if asked, or if they are allowed to get up and dance along. *cough* Rocky Horror *cough*
8. CONTROL YOUR CHILDREN
Not everyone going to a show as a child with them, but it is bound to happen. Know if the show is child appropriate, and make sure your child understands what they are about to do. Kids can get bored, so make sure they don't start talking or getting out of their sets. If you kid starts throwing a tantrum, please take your kid away. It's the most respectful thing to do instead of allowing them to cry.
9. BE PREPARED
Arrive early and use the restroom, talk to friends, buy merchandise , etc, before finding your seat. This allows for less disruptions during the show and makes leaving the show easier.
10. MEET AND GREET
After the show, some actors may come out to meet the audience and sign autographs. Just to be sure, bring your pen, as the actors might just be leaving from the stage. Also be aware that other people might want to talk to Townsperson #3, so don't take all their time telling them about how your grandchildren will be on Broadway one day.
11. BE COOLLY COOL
Theatre is supposed to be fun and entertaining, so don't be annoyed or upset for the show; it kills the joy for everyone. If others are giving a standing ovation, you should too. If others are clapping and laughing, allow yourself to do it too. Theatre is an escape from reality, so envelope yourself in the story.
On a personal note, I was once in a show where, on opening night, a family of four sat in the very front row. The son was on his phone the whole time and they never clapped, laughed, or smiled. At all. They didn't even stand or clap at the very end. And they were fat. After the show in the lobby, some of the cast stood by the door to wish them off, and they ignored all of them and left quickly. They are now know at The Judgmental Fat Family in the Front Row. Don't be TJFFitFR.
Leave any comments or other tips you may have below, as well as finding us on Twitter.
Kendall
PS: Have a great National Dance Day! Use this time to reminisce on old shows and choreography, both the good and bad!
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