The Best Practices for Participating in a Broadway Play
Broadway plays offer a unique and immersive entertainment experience that combines live performances, stunning sets, and enchanting storytelling. As a valued audience member, it's essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure the best possible experience for both you and the performers. Here are some key practices to keep in mind.
Etiquette for a Successful Broadway Experience
Applauding the Performance
Audience members should always applaud the play when the curtain falls, showing appreciation for the cast and production crew's hard work. However, if the show invites participation, there are specific etiquette rules to follow. For instance, in Rent, audience members are invited to 'Mooh' along with Maureen, and in Hamilton, a part of King George III’s song invites people to sing along. In these cases, it is appropriate to participate, but only if the play explicitly invites such involvement.
Use Your Phone Wisely
It's crucial to leave your phone silent and ideally not visible during the performance. This helps maintain a conducive environment for the show and avoids potential disruptions. If your job requires you to keep your phone on, make sure it's on silent mode. Using your phone to record the performance is expressly forbidden, as it can undermine the experience for others and interfere with the live performance.
Sitting Properly and Enjoying the Show
Make sure to sit in your assigned seat and react appropriately to the show. Laugh, cry, or gasp in response to the performance, but refrain from audible boos or hisses, especially in non-melodramas. The actors are in the moment, and your actions can significantly impact their performance.
Communicating Quietly
Should you need to communicate with the person next to you, please do so in a very low voice. The show is a shared experience, and loud conversations can disrupt the performance and other audience members. Remember, if you paid for the ticket, it's your turn to enjoy the performance. Lip-synching without sound is acceptable, but absolute silence is preferable.
Maintaining Stage Presence
Wear your shoes and keep them on your feet. This small act of respect can help the actors and ensure a comfortable environment for everyone. Similarly, do not sing along during the performance. If you have an exceptional singing voice, it's best to showcase it later, not during a Broadway play.
Responding to Participation Requests
When the show invites audience participation, follow the specific instructions given by the performers. However, if there is no specific call for audience involvement, only react naturally to the performance. Excessive or unnecessary noise can distract the performers and the other audience members. If someone randomly starts singing during the performance, it is likely to be distracting and may result in their request to leave.
As an audience, it's crucial to remember that a Broadway play is a live performance. Unlike watching a movie or TV show at home, each moment is happening right in front of you. Therefore, any unnecessary noise can significantly impact the experience for everyone else and potentially the performers. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for yourself and others.
Conclusion
By following these etiquette tips, you can be an excellent audience member and contribute positively to the overall experience of the Broadway play. Enjoy the show and let the magic play its part!