Tips for Attending the Ballet
Do:
Dress up for the occasion. Attending a ballet performance is a special event, so it is recommended, although not required, that you dress accordingly.
Arrive at the theater with enough time to find your seats before the performance is scheduled to begin. If you arrive after the performance has already started, you should wait for the usher
to show you to your seat at the appropriate time.
Sit quietly so you don’t distract the dancers or the other audience members around you. If programs are distributed, read them quietly without rustling the pages.
Show the dancers your appreciation by applauding at the appropriate times. They love to know you are enjoying the show, particularly at the end of the performance. Sometimes,
if a dancer does something spectacular, it is appropriate to show your enthusiasm by yelling “Bravo!” at the end of a performance.
Applaud for the conductor as he/she enters the orchestra pit. Applaud for the orchestra at the end of the performance.
Don’t:
Bring cameras or recording equipment into the theater. Flashes and noises are distracting and can be dangerous for the dancers, causing them to lose balance or fall.
Forget to turn off all pagers, cell phones, or other devices that may beep or make noise, as these can also be distracting to the dancers and other audience members.
Bring food, drinks, or chewing gum into the theater. While you may purchase refreshments in the lobby at intermission, you should be sure to throw away all garbage before
re-entering the theater.
Leave your seat in the middle of the performance unless it is an emergency. It is suggested that you bring cough drops, tissues, or anything else you may need to keep you
comfortable during the performance to avoid causing any disruptions.
And, most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the performance!