Conventions of audience behavior in theatre in the US today

What are some of the conventions of audience behavior in theatre in the US today? What are the conventions at other types of live events—opera, sports games, rock concerts?

What responsibilities, if any, do theatre artists have to their audience members?

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Full Answer Section

   
  • Cell phones: Cell phones should be turned off or silenced during theater performances. It is considered rude to answer a call, text, or take a photo during the performance.
  • Dress code: There is no dress code for theater performances, but most people dress casually or neatly.
  • Other: It is considered rude to leave the theater during a performance unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must leave, try to do so quietly and discreetly.
Opera
  • Silence: Audiences in opera are expected to be silent during the performance. This includes avoiding talking, whispering, making noise with food or drinks, or moving around unnecessarily.
  • Applauding: Audiences typically applaud at the end of an aria, scene, act, or performance. It is also common to applaud when a singer gives a particularly good performance.
  • Cell phones: Cell phones should be turned off or silenced during opera performances. It is considered rude to answer a call, text, or take a photo during the performance.
  • Dress code: There is no dress code for opera performances, but most people dress formally or semi-formally.
  • Other: It is considered rude to leave the theater during a performance unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must leave, try to do so quietly and discreetly.
Sports games
  • Noise: Audiences at sports games are expected to be noisy and cheer for their team. It is common to chant, sing, and clap.
  • Applauding: Audiences typically applaud when their team scores points, makes a good play, or when a player gives a particularly good performance.
  • Cell phones: Cell phones are allowed at sports games, but it is considered rude to talk on the phone or text during the game.
  • Dress code: There is no dress code for sports games, but most people dress casually.
  • Other: It is considered rude to throw things at the field or court, or to heckle players from the opposing team.
Rock concerts
  • Noise: Audiences at rock concerts are expected to be noisy and cheer for the band. It is common to dance, sing, and clap.
  • Applauding: Audiences typically applaud at the end of a song, setlist, or concert. It is also common to applaud when a band member gives a particularly good performance.
  • Cell phones: Cell phones are allowed at rock concerts, but it is considered rude to talk on the phone or text during the concert.
  • Dress code: There is no dress code for rock concerts, but most people dress casually.
  • Other: It is considered rude to stage dive or crowd surf without the permission of the band or venue staff.
Cultural differences It is important to note that audience behavior can vary depending on the cultural context. For example, in some cultures, it is considered rude to applaud between arias in an opera. It is also important to be respectful of the customs and traditions of the venue or country where you are attending a performance or event. Conclusion By following the general conventions of audience behavior, you can help to ensure that everyone has a positive experience at the theater, opera, sports game, or rock concert.  

Sample Answer

   

Audience behavior in theater, opera, sports games, and rock concerts varies depending on the type of event, the venue, and the audience itself. However, there are some general conventions that are observed in the United States.

Theater

  • Silence: Audiences in theater are generally expected to be silent during the performance. This means avoiding talking, whispering, making noise with food or drinks, or moving around unnecessarily.
  • Applauding: Audiences typically applaud at the end of a scene, act, or performance. It is also common to applaud when an actor or actress gives a particularly good performance.