How to Practise Proper Etiquette for a Broadway Show
Show up on time., Turn off your cellphone., Don't take pictures in the theater., Applaud when appropriate, refrain from whistling or hollering., Don't snack in the theater., Sit quietly and don't disturb others., The only time talking or whispering...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Show up on time.
Note that if you arrive late, you may be unable to get to your assigned seat for the first act.
If an emergency prevents you from arriving on time, the ushers will try their hardest to seat you in an empty seat in the back.
You should be able to get to your assigned seat by the second act.
Beware: some actors have been known to point out those who arrive late. -
Step 2: Turn off your cellphone.
People will be escorted out of the theater if their cellphone goes off.
It is considered distracting to the people around you and to the actors performing.
There will most likely be a reminder at the beginning of the play to turn off all electronics, so make sure you adhere to it.
This applies to text messaging too.
Even when your phone is set to silent, the light from it can be distracting to others around you, and if you do receive a call or text, the transmissions from your phone can interfere with sound equipment in the theater.
Shut off your phone until the intermission or end of the show. , While it is completely acceptable to take pictures outside of the play, as soon as you enter, turn your camera off.
The plays are copyrighted.
Distributing copyrighted images is considered copyright infringement, so keep the camera in your bag. , General theater etiquette states that whistling and cheering are in bad taste. , If refreshments are sold in the lobby, consume them before the show or during intermission.
The sounds of eating, including the crinkling of wrappers, the chewing of food, or the smacking of chewing gum, are all distracting.
If you are diabetic, bring quiet food such as raisins to address a potential insulin reaction (low blood sugar). , The other patrons came to watch the show, so please be respectful.
Avoid wearing hats, or leaning too close to your friend or partner and blocking the view of the people behind you.
Leaning forward or holding a child also prevents others from seeing the show. , Never ask the people around you what is being said.
Also, never sing along with the actors during a performance! If you are hard of hearing, ask the usher for a special hearing device for the play.
Remember, the actors are live.
They can hear you too. , Children under twelve often have difficulties sitting still for long periods of time, and will most likely not grasp the story line of the play anyway.
If you must bring your children, keep them under control. , The show isn't over until the actors have done curtain calls.
If you leave earlier, it's considered extremely rude to them because they've worked so hard to entertain you. , This isn't necessary, but is preferred.
Broadway used to demand formal attire.
Although full blown evening gowns and a tuxedo are no longer required, you should still attempt to wear neat and presentable clothing. -
Step 3: Don't take pictures in the theater.
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Step 4: Applaud when appropriate
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Step 5: refrain from whistling or hollering.
-
Step 6: Don't snack in the theater.
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Step 7: Sit quietly and don't disturb others.
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Step 8: The only time talking or whispering is acceptable is during intermission.
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Step 9: Take your child/children to age appropriate shows
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Step 10: or consider leaving them with a babysitter.
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Step 11: Don't leave until the show is over.
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Step 12: Wear proper attire.
Detailed Guide
Note that if you arrive late, you may be unable to get to your assigned seat for the first act.
If an emergency prevents you from arriving on time, the ushers will try their hardest to seat you in an empty seat in the back.
You should be able to get to your assigned seat by the second act.
Beware: some actors have been known to point out those who arrive late.
People will be escorted out of the theater if their cellphone goes off.
It is considered distracting to the people around you and to the actors performing.
There will most likely be a reminder at the beginning of the play to turn off all electronics, so make sure you adhere to it.
This applies to text messaging too.
Even when your phone is set to silent, the light from it can be distracting to others around you, and if you do receive a call or text, the transmissions from your phone can interfere with sound equipment in the theater.
Shut off your phone until the intermission or end of the show. , While it is completely acceptable to take pictures outside of the play, as soon as you enter, turn your camera off.
The plays are copyrighted.
Distributing copyrighted images is considered copyright infringement, so keep the camera in your bag. , General theater etiquette states that whistling and cheering are in bad taste. , If refreshments are sold in the lobby, consume them before the show or during intermission.
The sounds of eating, including the crinkling of wrappers, the chewing of food, or the smacking of chewing gum, are all distracting.
If you are diabetic, bring quiet food such as raisins to address a potential insulin reaction (low blood sugar). , The other patrons came to watch the show, so please be respectful.
Avoid wearing hats, or leaning too close to your friend or partner and blocking the view of the people behind you.
Leaning forward or holding a child also prevents others from seeing the show. , Never ask the people around you what is being said.
Also, never sing along with the actors during a performance! If you are hard of hearing, ask the usher for a special hearing device for the play.
Remember, the actors are live.
They can hear you too. , Children under twelve often have difficulties sitting still for long periods of time, and will most likely not grasp the story line of the play anyway.
If you must bring your children, keep them under control. , The show isn't over until the actors have done curtain calls.
If you leave earlier, it's considered extremely rude to them because they've worked so hard to entertain you. , This isn't necessary, but is preferred.
Broadway used to demand formal attire.
Although full blown evening gowns and a tuxedo are no longer required, you should still attempt to wear neat and presentable clothing.
About the Author
Martha Hernandez
Committed to making practical skills accessible and understandable for everyone.
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