Knowing what to expect when you attend a show will ensure you have a good time. The following guidelines offer tips on what is expected of audience members.
BEFORE THE PERFORMANCE
Dress comfortably: We want you to enjoy the live theater you’re about to see. Please dress comfortably, whatever that may be to you. Dress up or dress down; just be ready to see some great live theater!
Arrive a little early: Because you are attending a live performance, audience members may not be admitted if they arrive late. This avoids disturbing the performance for the actors and other audience members. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early.
Take care of personal needs: Try to use the restroom before the show begins. Otherwise, if you leave your seat before intermission, you’ll most likely disturb other audience members and the performers.
Find a seat: An usher will greet you before you enter the theater and ask for your ticket. Seating in the theatre is general admission - meaning you can choose your own seat. From time to time, there may be reserved signs on certain seats for media or special guests. Once you're seated, please take a moment to turn off all electronic devices including cellular phones, pagers, and music players.
Check out the program: The usher will give you a printed program. By arriving early, you’ll have enough time to read it and have an idea of what to expect. The program includes biographies of all of the actors and designers who worked on the show as well as insightful dramaturgical material by The Festival's artistic and education staff. It’s an enjoyable read—and sometimes surprising!
DURING THE PERFORMANCE
No recording of any kind: By law, there is absolutely NO recording or photography of any kind allowed during the performance.
Watch your feet and belongings: Because of the intimate nature of the theater, the actors will be entering and exiting from all sides and using the aisles. If you are seated in a front row, please mind your feet and belongings.
Listen closely: You will hear actors perform live for you, and careful listening will help keep you from missing important elements of the performance. Try to avoid talking or fidgeting during the performance. You'll be able to hear better and also avoid disturbing those around you.
Respond readily: During the live performance, feel free to let the actors know you appreciate the show. Laugh at funny parts, cheer when it’s called for, applaud when you like something, and even shriek when you’re frightened. We always appreciate a respectful, appropriate response.
Intermission: There will be one 15-minute intermission. Restrooms and concessions are available in the lobby downstairs.
AFTER THE PERFORMANCE
Applaud enthusiastically: Show your appreciation by applauding for the performers. Occasionally, you might hear people applaud or cheer during the performance; that’s fine once in a while. But most often the audience holds its applause until after the performance has ended.
Remain seated for the curtain call: At the end of the performance there is usually a curtain call. This is when the actors come on stage to accept your appreciation. Wait to leave until the curtain call is over and exit with the rest of the audience.