creating a great theater experience

Live theater is an experience that expands horizons, increases understanding, and lifts the spirit. Educating your students on simple theater etiquette will help make your field trip more enjoyable and be a lifetime tool for your students.
Read the book. See the play.

Be Orderly – Safety is our primary concern. It is imperative for students to enter and exit the theater in an orderly fashion. No running, pushing, or horseplay.

Listen and Observe – There is much to hear (dialogue, music, sound effects and voice inflection) and much to see (costumes, props, set design, lighting effects and architecture of the theater).

Dress appropriately – Attending the theater is a special and exciting occasion. Dress clothes are appropriate.

Use that noodle! Think about how the play and book are different. What stands out in the play?

Cheer, clap and laugh along  – When the actors do something funny or sing a great song, feel free to share your enthusiasm. It makes their day and makes the experience more fun for everyone.

Unacceptable or dangerous behavior – Throwing objects is dangerous; spitting is unsanitary; inappropriate noises are disturbing. Such behavior will result in a student or class being asked to sit in the lobby or leave the theater during the remainder of the performance. If any objects are thrown on stage, the show will be stopped. Balcony seats seem to invite unacceptable behavior. Teachers, be alert!

 Refrain from distracting the actors and others – Use of cameras, camcorders and flashlights is not allowed during the performance. Restrooms should be visited before or after the performance, if possible. Steady streams of students leaving and re-entering the theater distract the performers and audience alike. Inappropriate noises may be fun to the individual but very distracting to others. 

No chewing gum and snacks – Food and gum are not allowed inside the theater. Teachers please see that snacks and gum are left on the bus or deposited in trash receptacles at the theater entrance.