Successful performances are possible only if everyone - the actor's the director, the stage crew, and even the audience - shows proper respect for involved. Achieving the best results is possible only in an environment of personal responsibility and mural respect.
Often theater etiquette is nothing more than showing common courtesy. However, theater presents some unique situations, ones where the ground rules for interacting with others might not always be clear. The following guidelines to behavior will make it possible for everyone involved in a performance to enjoy the theater experience.
THE ACTORS
* Learn lines, business, and blocking on schedule.
* NEVER peek through the curtains before (when the audience is present) or during a performance. (Side note: If you can see them, they can see you.)
* Do not remove your makeup until after the curtain call. Never mingle with members of the audience or leave the theater while in costume or makeup.
* Do not change lines or stage business or tell others to do so unless the change has been approved by the director.
* Subordinate yourself to the performance by accepting your role and the costume, hairstyle, and makeup that go with it.
* Never knowingly upstage other performers. Be careful not to do it accidentally, either.
* Be attentive and receptive to the director's comments, and make an honest effort to make requested adjustments.
* Do not borrow another actor's makeup.
* Promptly report any damage to costumes or props before leaving the theater after each performance.
* Join the audience in applauding the musicians at the end of a musical's curtain call.
* Always show your appreciation to the director, the crews, and any other staff members associated with the production.
* Offer to assist the stage crew whenever possible.
EVERYONE ASSOCIATED WITH THE PRODUCTION
* Unless you are on the props crew, do not handle the props or sets.
* Know emergency procedures and locations of firefighting equipment, the exits, and the fire alarms.
* Respect those who want to carry on theater traditions even though these traditions may seem like superstitions to you.
* After the show, make any presentations or recognitions for outstanding contributions at a time when everyone associated with the performance can be present.
* Post-performance cast parties should only involve those who worked on the show.
AUDIENCE MEMBERS (AAEP Theater Field Trip Rules & general theater guidelines)
* Plan to arrive about thirty minutes before the performance begins. This way, you have plenty of time to find your seats and get acquainted with the theater. Stay with your group & chaperones at all times.
* Gum, food and drinks are not allowed in the theater. If you must have a piece of hard candy, be sure to unwrap it before the curtain goes up.
* Dress appropriately. Theaters are usually a bit chilly, so you may want to bring a sweater with you even if it's warm outside. (Unless you're going to an outdoor performance.)
* Use the rest rooms before the performance starts or at intermission.
* TURN OFF all cell phones, pagers, alarms or anything else that could make a noise or flash during the performance. Absolutely NO TEXTING either.
* Do not talk during a performance. However, if something is funny, laugh. Actors feed off the audience's energy. So, react appropriately to the situation.
* No picture or video taping is allowed.
* At the end of the performance, clap for the performers, crew and musicians.* Remember: going to the theater is a privilege. Treat EVERYONE you meet with respect. (Trust me, you never know who you might bump into, even in the washroom!)
* If you have the opportunity to attend a post show discussion with the actors/crew, try to think of questions You'd like them to try to answer prior to attending the performance.
