Audience Etiquette for Theater in 2023

by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder

Over the weekend, we saw a terrible incident happen at the Broadway show, Here Lies Love. Audience members somehow were able to access the backstage area where they intruded Lea Salonga’s dressing room and had to be escorted out of the theatre, by the star herself.

This incident reminded me that it may be time again to remind people of how to behave when attending a live show.

Proper theater audience etiquette refers to the expected behavior and manners that audience members should exhibit when attending a live performance. Adhering to these guidelines ensures a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, including the performers and fellow audience members. Here are some key points to remember:

Arrive on time: Plan to arrive at the theater well before the scheduled start time to allow for parking, finding your seat, and settling in. Latecomers can be disruptive and may not be seated until a suitable break in the performance.

Turn off electronic devices: Before entering the theater, ensure that all electronic devices, such as cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches, are turned off or set to silent mode. The glow and sound of these devices can be distracting to both performers and other audience members.

Avoid talking: Once inside the theater, maintain a quiet atmosphere by refraining from unnecessary conversations. Whispering or talking during the performance can disrupt the concentration of those around you and detract from the overall experience.

Stay seated: Remain in your seat for the duration of the performance unless there is an intermission or a break. Moving around, changing seats, or leaving and re-entering the theater during the performance can be disruptive to both the performers and other audience members.

Applaud appropriately: Show appreciation for the performers by applauding at appropriate times, such as after a musical number or at the end of a scene. However, it's important to be aware of the performance's tone and cues from other audience members to gauge when applause is appropriate.

Respect the performers and their work: Avoid any behavior that could distract or disrupt the performers, such as heckling, shouting, or throwing objects onto the stage. Remember that the performers have put in a tremendous amount of effort to entertain you, and they deserve your respect and attention.

Be mindful of other audience members: Consider those around you by minimizing any potential distractions, such as rustling papers, coughing without covering your mouth, or excessive movement. By being considerate, you contribute to a more immersive experience for everyone in attendance.

Follow specific theater rules: Different theaters may have their own set of rules and guidelines. Familiarize yourself with any specific instructions or policies provided by the theater and adhere to them accordingly.

Remember, theater is a communal experience, and the collective respect and consideration of the audience contribute to a more enjoyable performance for all. And DO NOT EVER do what those people did to Lea Salonga.