Theatre Etiquette
Theatre, unlike movies or television, is LIVE performance. This means that the action unfolds right in front of an audience. The performance, though well-rehearsed, is constantly evolving. The actors respond to the audience with laughter, applause, gasps, and general reactions. Therefore, the audience is a critical part of the theatre experience. In fact, without the audience, the actors would still be in rehearsal!
As an audience member, it is important to observe certain etiquette so that you may enjoy the best theatre experience possible. When the performance is about to begin, the lights will dim. This is a signal for the actors and the audience to put aside concerns and conversation, and settle into the world of the play. Please use the restroom and take care of all other concerns before the show, or at intermission. The performers expect the audience’s full attention and focus. This is the time for the audience to think inwardly, not a time to express their thoughts aloud. Talking to neighbors (or even just whispering) carries easily to others in the audience and to the actors onstage. Cell phones, pagers, watch alarms and other electronic devices must be turned off before the performance begins. When noisy objects of this type go off, it is very distracting for the actors and other audience members. Walking through the aisle(s) during the performance is disruptive. Actors occasionally use the aisles and stairways as entrances and exits. The actors will notice any movement in the performance space.
Absolutely no text messaging.
Please use no flash photography during performances.
Again, attending a live performance is a time to sit back and look inward, question what is being presented to you and be curious about worlds that are different than yours. As theatre artists we approach our audiences with respect and expect the same in return. Live theatre offers the opportunity to experience new ideas and discover people and lives previously unknown to you. Your open mind, curiosity, and respect will allow a whole other world to unfold right before your eyes!
Box Office Protocols
Tickets are non-refundable.
The Box Office opens one hour before the performance begins for tickets to be purchased or picked up.
The House opens a half-hour before the performance begins for audience seating.
The Doors close as soon as the performance begins. Late seating is not possible because of the layout of the performance space. That means you will not be allowed to enter the theatre after the front doors are locked until intermission because actors use every available space in our theatre for entrances, exits and getting back and forth from spot to spot during the performance.
