Like any social experience, going to the theatre comes with its own set of rules and etiquette for good behaviour. It’s important to be considerate of the theatre staff, your fellow audience members, and of course, the performers. With this in mind, we’ve created a quick guide on the do’s and dont’s of theatre etiquette.
Photo by Adrian Raudaschl on Unsplash
Do: Show up early
Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show starts, so you’ll have time to get through security checks, buy food and drinks, and check out the theatre merch (to grab that all important programme!) before making your way to your seat. If you arrive after the show starts, you may not be allowed into the auditorium until an appropriate moment when you can slip in without disturbing the performance.
Don’t: Take photos and videos of the performance
Most theatres in the West End have a strict no-filming policy, therefore photos and videos are not allowed during the performance. Not only does it distract the actors and disturb other audience members, it is also illegal. Some shows like Six, invite audiences to film specific parts of the performance. There is sometimes a chance to take pictures of the cast during the curtain call but not all shows allow this.
Do: Share your positive experience of seeing the show on social media
If you’ve had the best time at the theatre, why not share your experience on social media? It’s a fantastic way to interact with other theatregoers but also helps promote the show, encouraging more people to buy their tickets and see it for themselves! You’ll often find information on how you can find the show and the performers on social media in the programme.
Don’t: bring outside food and drink into the auditorium
You are not permitted into a theatre if you bring in food and drinks from outside. Security bag checks take place prior to you entering the theatre so you may be asked to dispose of any food and drink. However, most theatres do allow you to bring in reusable water bottles.. Theatres tend to have their own bar and concession stands where you can purchase refreshments should you wish to. We would encourage you to check the theatre’s policy prior to your visit.
Do: Wear what you feel comfortable in
There’s no strict dress code for attending the theatre. Wear what you feel comfortable in, especially as you’re going to be sitting for long stretches of time, and consider bringing a jacket as some theatres can get cold. You don’t need to dress up, but you can if you want to.
Don’t: talk during the performance
We know that witnessing a performance is an exciting experience that you want to talk about - but leave those conversations until the curtain has gone down. It’s distracting not only for the performers on stage but also the fellow theatregoers around you who have purchased their tickets. For the same reasons, don’t sing along to musical numbers.
Do: switch off your phone
As a courtesy to your fellow audience members and the performers, you’ll be instructed by the theatre to switch off your phone during the performance. You can decide to place it on airplane mode so it doesn’t disturb the performance by ringing or buzzing. Avoid checking your phone during the show as the light of the screen can still be disruptive even if the phone is silent. There’s nothing worse than being distracted by the noise or light coming from a mobile phone during a show.
Don’t: leave before the curtain call
Curtain call is when the cast comes onstage one last time after the show is over for final bows and applause. It’s considered rude to leave the auditorium until the performers have left the stage. Even if you want to beat the crowds out of the theatre, stick around to show your appreciation for the cast and crew for their hard work in entertaining you that night.
Do: applaud at the right moments
Everyone knows to applaud at the end of the show or during the curtain call or encore, but it’s also encouraged to applaud at the interval, during blackouts, or after a big musical number. Take your cue from other audience members - actors are usually trained to pause for applause after a big moment and pick up where they left off.
Don’t: gather at the stage door unless you know the actors have agreed to be there
When you purchase a ticket to the theatre, it doesn’t come with a free pass to meet the stars of the show at the stage door. Stage door is where the staff, not just the performers, access the theatre. Some theatregoers do choose to head to the stage door afterwards but be mindful that some of the performers will be rushing to get their transport home safely and quickly after the show has concluded.
Do: be mindful of the people sitting around or behind you
Everyone wants to have a good view of the stage and a comfortable theatre experience, and while there’s not much you can do if your seat has cramped legroom or there’s a tall person sitting in front of you, there are a few things you can be aware of to avoid inconveniencing your seatmates. Avoid putting your feet up on the seat in front of you, or leaning forward and around in a way that blocks the people in front of you, and be mindful of blocking the aisles with your bags and coats.
If you're looking for more theatreland tips, here's the London Theatre Shows that do a Sunday performance.
