Last updated: By Neil Cheesman
Theatre Etiquette – suggestions that are open for debate
When visiting a London theatre, one of the most important things to consider is that the performance is not just for you! All of the audience would like to enjoy the show! The cast also would like to be able to perform without distractions from the auditorium.
There are moments to treasure during any performance and for you and everyone around you to enjoy those moments PLEASE consider others!
In order to make everyone’s experience enjoyable here are some suggestions as to what is acceptable.
- Arrive at the theatre in good time as latecomers always interrupt others in the audience and on stage
- Switch OFF mobile phones, pagers, and wristwatch alarms before the performance begins
- It is NOT acceptable for you to be texting, tweeting, emailing, or using your mobile phone during a performance as using your phone WILL be a distraction to others due to the light and you using it
- The recording of a performance or part of a performance either by audio or video is ILLEGAL!
- Please do NOT talk (loudly or excessively) during performances as it is disruptive to those around you
- Unless you are invited to sing along by the cast, DON’T!
- You should not eat or drink during a performance – do it before the show or DURING THE INTERVAL – that is what the interval is for!
- IF you MUST eat a sweet to raise your sugar levels then avoid unwrapping sweets from crinkly packets or eating ‘crunchy’ sweets
- Don’t put your feet up on the person in front of you – you are not at home
- If you must go to the toilet then do it before the show starts or during the interval or after the show has finished
- Standing ovations should wait until the curtain call unless audience are ‘invited’ to stand by the cast
- Please do not take your shoes off as it can be unpleasant for others
- Try and sit fairly still as there will probably be someone behind you who is trying to view past your head
- Please respect other people’s space as seating and leg-room in theatres can be limited
- Applause at the end of a show should be for ALL of the cast and musicians
If you have problems at the theatre then talk to an usher who will if necessary contact the House Manager to assist you to resolve any issues. If you are still not satisfied then contact the theatre management head office the next day (the address will be in the programme).
Remember, theatre is to be enjoyed by EVERYONE!
London Theatre Dress Code
With regard to a London theatre dress code, as such there isn’t a strict code of dress. Your London theatre attire should generally be ‘smart-casual’, or casual. When you are taking a London theatre UK trip, whether a matinee or an evening performance your clothes should be appropriate for the occasion at any of the London theatre venues.
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