Going to see a live play is a great way to enjoy storytelling, spend time with family and friends and experience something different from watching a movie at home. If you’re attending a theatre performance for the first time, you might have questions about what to expect and how to be a good audience member.

Fortunately, theatre etiquette is pretty simple. A few basic guidelines help everyone enjoy the performance while showing respect for the actors, crew and other people in the audience.

Here’s what you should know before your next visit to Westgate Theatre.

1. Arrive Before the Show Starts

One of the most important rules of theatre etiquette is to arrive on time. Give yourself enough time to find the theatre, park, use the restroom and get seated before the performance begins.

Arriving early helps you settle in without disrupting the audience or actors. If you’re visiting a theatre for the first time, plan to arrive with enough time to get comfortable before the curtain goes up.

Late arrivals can be disruptive, so it’s best to plan ahead whenever possible.

2. Turn Off or Silence Your Phone

Phones are a normal part of everyday life, but they can be distracting during a live theatre performance. A ringing phone, notification or bright screen can take attention away from what’s happening on stage.

Before the show starts:

• Turn your phone to silent or Do Not Disturb.
• Avoid using your phone during the performance.
• Keep your screen dimmed or put your phone away.
• Don’t take calls while the play is in progress.

Unlike watching a show at home, a live performance depends on the attention of the audience. Keeping your phone out of sight helps you and everyone around you stay engaged.

3. Avoid Talking During the Performance

It’s perfectly fine to talk with your friends and family before the show or during an appropriate break. Once the performance begins, however, try to keep conversations to a minimum.

Even quiet conversations can distract people nearby. They can also make it more difficult for audience members to hear the actors’ dialogue.

If you need to say something, wait for a suitable moment whenever possible. Giving the performance your attention is one of the easiest ways to practice good theatre etiquette.

4. Show Your Appreciation With Applause

Applause is an important part of the live theatre experience. It allows the audience to show appreciation for the actors and the work that goes into a production.

You can applaud:

• When the actors first come on stage, if appropriate.
• After an impressive performance or scene.
• At the end of the play.
• During other moments when applause is customary.

You don’t need to worry about applauding at exactly the right time. Pay attention to the audience around you and follow the natural flow of the performance.

Most importantly, enjoy yourself. Your appreciation helps create the shared experience that makes live theatre special.

5. Stay Seated During the Play

Try to remain in your seat throughout the performance. Getting up, walking around or moving through a row can distract the people around you and interrupt their experience.

Take care of restroom visits and other needs before the show begins whenever possible. If you do need to leave your seat, try to do so at an appropriate moment.

For families with young children, a little planning can help make the experience more comfortable for everyone.

6. Be Considerate of Other Audience Members

A theatre brings together people with different backgrounds, ages and expectations. Being considerate helps everyone enjoy the show.

Some simple ways to be respectful include:

• Avoid talking loudly or making unnecessary noise.
• Keep personal belongings from blocking walkways or neighboring seats.
• Be mindful of people sitting behind you.
• Follow the theatre’s specific rules and instructions.
• Treat staff and other audience members with courtesy.

A little consideration goes a long way toward creating an enjoyable environment for everyone.

7. Follow the Theatre’s Photography and Recording Rules

You may want to capture a memory of your visit, but photography and recording policies vary between productions and venues.

Before taking pictures or recording video, check whether the theatre allows it. Flash photography, in particular, can distract performers and audience members.

Follow any instructions provided by Westgate Theatre staff regarding photography, video and other recording.

When in doubt, enjoy the performance without your phone. You can always take a photo of yourself or your group before or after the show if permitted.

8. Dress Comfortably and Appropriately

You don’t necessarily need formal clothing to attend a live play. What you wear will depend on the venue, the production and your personal preferences.

For most theatre visits, the goal is to wear something comfortable and appropriate for the setting. If you’re unsure about the dress code, check with the theatre beforehand.

Whether you’re dressed casually or getting ready for a special night out, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and ready to enjoy the performance.

9. Be Mindful of Children and Families

Live theatre can be a wonderful experience for families. Children may react to the action on stage, ask questions or need a break during the performance.

If you’re attending with children, consider explaining basic theatre etiquette before arriving. Let them know why it’s important to listen, keep voices low and be considerate of the actors and other audience members.

At the same time, remember that children are still learning. A little preparation and patience can help make the experience enjoyable for the whole family.

10. Enjoy the Experience of Live Theatre

Above all, theatre etiquette is about respecting the people who make the performance possible and the audience members who came to enjoy it.

Live theatre offers something unique: the opportunity to experience a story unfold in front of you, alongside other people in the room. The energy of the actors, the audience’s reactions and the atmosphere of the venue all contribute to the experience.

You don’t have to be a theatre expert to enjoy a play. Just arrive prepared, be considerate and allow yourself to get caught up in the story.

Experience Live Theatre at Westgate Theatre

Looking for an opportunity to enjoy a live play in West Yellowstone? Westgate Theatre offers live theatre performances for visitors and local audiences looking for an entertaining experience.

Whether you’re a longtime theatre fan or attending your first play, following a few simple theatre etiquette guidelines can help you make the most of your visit.

Check out Westgate Theatre’s upcoming performances and plan your next night of live entertainment.