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What to Expect at the Theatre vs. a Concert Venue or Movie Theater

Attending a live theatre performance can be a magical experience, immersing you in a world of storytelling, music, and drama. However, it comes with its own set of etiquette and expectations, which can differ significantly from those of concert venues and movie theaters. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the nuances of theatre etiquette and understand what to expect.

Dress Code

Theatre: Theatre performances often encourage a more formal dress code. While black tie is rarely required, business casual to semi-formal attire is generally appropriate. Think of it as an opportunity to dress up and make the evening special.


Concert Venue: Dress codes at concert venues can vary widely depending on the genre of music. For classical concerts, a smart casual outfit is suitable, while rock concerts might see attendees in casual, even grungy, attire.
Movie Theater: Movie theaters are the most relaxed when it comes to dress code. Casual wear, like jeans and t-shirts, is perfectly acceptable.

Arrival Time

Theatre: Arriving early is crucial. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance starts. This allows time to find parking, collect tickets if needed, and find your seat without disrupting others.
Concert Venue: Arriving on time is also important for concerts, especially for reserved seating. However, for general admission events, arriving early can secure a better spot.
Movie Theater: For popular movies, arriving early can ensure you get good seats, but generally, you only need to be there a few minutes before the trailers start.

Behavior During the Performance

Theatre: Silence is golden during a theatre performance. Turn off your phone’s sound and avoid talking, rustling, or any other distractions. Applaud at appropriate times, typically at the end of scenes or acts, and give a standing ovation if you feel the performance merits it. Note: some productions allow photography, some do not. We will inform you before the show what the individual performance allows.
Concert Venue: Concerts often encourage a more interactive experience. Clapping, cheering, and even singing along can be part of the fun, especially in pop, rock, and jazz concerts. However, during classical or acoustic performances, quieter behavior is appreciated.
Movie Theater: While talking and phone use should be minimized, reactions like laughter or gasps are natural and often add to the communal experience. Applause is rare but can happen during particularly thrilling moments or at the end of a film.

Intermission and Refreshments

Theatre: Intermissions are common in theatre performances, providing a break to stretch, use the restroom, or grab a refreshment. It’s a good time to discuss the performance quietly with companions.
Concert Venue: Intermissions are less common in concerts but may occur in classical performances. Refreshments are often available before the show and sometimes during intermissions.
Movie Theater: There are no intermissions in movies, so plan your restroom and snack breaks accordingly. Concessions are available throughout the screening.

Exiting the Venue

Theatre: Exit the theatre in an orderly manner. It’s customary to stay until the end of the curtain call to show appreciation for the performers.
Concert Venue: Exiting can be chaotic, especially at larger venues. Be patient and follow the crowd flow.
Movie Theater: Leaving a movie theater is straightforward. Many people start exiting during the credits, but it’s respectful to stay until the end if possible.

McCallum Theatre: A Unique Venue

The McCallum Theatre serves as both a theatre and concert venue, hosting a diverse range of performances from Broadway to musical concerts, as well as comedy, speakers, magic shows and more. Depending on the show, artist, or genre, some or all sets of rules can apply. The Sing-Along performance of Disney’s “Encanto” features both the movie along with live musicians performing. In this instance, we find ourselves being both a movie theater and concert venue. Our speaker performances featuring National Geographic explorers, Jeffrey Siegel’s Keyboard Conversations® often feature Q & A. These examples encourage audience participation at the appropriate times.

Whether you’re attending a theatrical production or a live concert, being mindful of the appropriate etiquette enhances the experience for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Attending the theatre is a unique cultural experience that benefits from a bit of preparation and understanding of proper etiquette. By dressing appropriately, arriving on time, and respecting the performers and fellow audience members, you’ll enhance your enjoyment and contribute to a pleasant experience for everyone.

Whether you’re at a theatre, concert venue, or movie theater, being mindful of your behavior ensures that you and those around you can fully immerse yourselves in the performance. Enjoy the show!