Theatre Etiquette

Every theatre buff may not be auditioning. Some may be perfectly content with attending a theatrical production as a spectator and that is perfectly fine. There are certain behaviors and manners that are expected to be observed when attending a theatre production and it is important to be aware of and observe them before entering the theatre in order to avoid evil stares from the surrounding audience members.

Broadway Productions

Broadway shows are expensive and considered to be some of the best theatre to be performed. When attending one of these shows, even though there may not be a set dress code, it is not advised to enter a broadway theatre in shorts and flip flops. When attending one of these types of shows, it is best to dress up. Wearing some slacks or khakis and a nice shirt would suffice, but it is always nice to put a little effort into what is worn. Other good etiquette such as: turn off your cell phone, hold your applause until the end of a scene, don’t whisper to your neighbor and don’t unwrap candy wrappers during a scene are pretty standard practices. Another good habit to observe would be to do not show up late, late arrivals may run the risk of having their tickets given away if purchased ahead of time and/or having to wait until intermission to be seated. It is always best to arrive early and be seated before the curtain goes up and it is highly frowned upon to leave the play before it is over. If nature calls, it is best to wait until the intermission but if it is an emergency, wait until the applause at the end of a scene.

Off Broadway Productions

Off Broadway Productions are defined as anything that is not being performed on a New York Broadway stage. Even though the attenders of these types of shows are paying slightly less money to see the show, it is still important to be polite and considerate of fellow audience members. Off Broadway Theatre Etiquette follows the same guidelines as the Broadway Productions. Again, dress code may not be directly noted or strictly enforced but it is always good to remember that attending a play is different than going to a movie theater, therefore, dress accordingly. The same types of behaviors with cell phones and candy wrappers should be observed and avoid getting up until the intermission as much as possible. A live theatrical production is a unique and exciting experience whether on or off Broadway and it is important that it is treated as one.