A Complete Guide to Theatre Etiquette in South Africa

Going to the theatre in Johannesburg is a special experience, whether you’re watching a lavish Joburg Ballet production or a riveting independent play at The Market Theatre. To make sure that everyone enjoys the performance, there are a few simple rules of theatre etiquette to follow. Here’s our guide to help you make the most of your visit while being considerate to those around you.

Arrive on time (or better yet, arrive early!)

Punctuality is important in the theatre. Arriving late can be disruptive to both the performers and the audience when a latecomer is trying to get to their seat in the middle of the auditorium, in complete darkness 10 minutes into the show. Most theatres won’t allow latecomers to take their seats until a suitable break in the performance, which means you might miss an important part of the show. Arriving early means you have time to check out the facilities, visit the bar, and take your seat with time to spare.

Make sure your phone is on silent

Before the curtain rises, switch off your phone or set it to silent. Even a dimly lit screen can be distracting in a darkened auditorium, and a sudden ringtone can ruin a dramatic moment. Resist the urge to check messages or take photos – live performances deserve your full attention. Live performances are that it is in fact live. It lives in that moment, and each show is different.

Think twice before filming or taking pictures

It’s absolutely fine if want to share your visit to the venue and experience at the show. Photos in the foyer or in the auditorium preshow, at intervals, or post-show are always allowed. However filming, sound recordings, and photography throughout the performance is not permitted. Some productions may allow photography during the Curtain Call when performers appear at the end of the production.

If you wish to share images of the show with family and friends, head to the Facebook page or website of the theatre venue or production company. There will very likely be images there that a) are photos they want people to see of their work and are happy with, b) are probably much better quality than photos from your phone, c) provided employment to a professional photographer, and d) contain the appropriate credits to use with the images should you choose to share it on social media.

theatre etiquette in South Africa — Joburg Theatre | Photography: Lauge Sorensen

Keep talking to a minimum

Understanding the nuances of theatre etiquette can greatly enhance your overall enjoyment of the show. It’s tempting to whisper to a friend during the show, but even quiet chatter can be distracting. Save your comments for the interval or after the performance. Let the actors tell the story, and allow everyone to be fully immersed in the experience.

Be mindful of fellow theatregoers

Large bags, rustling sweet wrappers, and clinking bottles can all cause unnecessary noise. If you bring snacks, choose quiet ones and unwrap them before the show begins. Be considerate of legroom, and avoid kicking or leaning on the seat in front of you.

Theatre etiquette for the kids

Theatre etiquette for kids and family shows is a little more relaxed. Stick to your children’s age range and choose something that they are interested in so they’re not likely to get fidgety or bored. Perhaps a pantomime or a show specially written for their age range?

If you are attending an event in most cases kids under 2 don’t need a ticket if they sit on their adult’s lap. If possible, book an aisle seat so that toilet trips don’t disrupt any neighbours.

Applaud at the right time

Clapping is a wonderful way to show appreciation, but timing matters. In musicals, applause is generally reserved for the end of big numbers, while in plays, it’s best to wait until the scene or act has concluded. If you’re unsure, follow the lead of the audience around you. The following theatre etiquette is accepted:

Theatre: When the lights come up at the end of an act
Classical music: Hold applause until the piece is finished. Often the conductor will turn around at this point
Opera, ballet and dance: Usually at the end of a scene, or after an impressive aria, solo or choreography
Musicals and popular music: Whenever you feel like it

Actors are thrilled when they receive a “standing ovation”, so if you want to pay them the highest praise, you might stand and applaud. This practice is traditionally reserved for the absolute BEST performances.

Dress code for a theatre outing

While there’s no strict dress code for most theatre productions, you can never go wrong with something smart-casual. A little effort shows respect for the occasion and adds to the special atmosphere of a theatre visit. Wear what you’ll feel comfortable in. It can get cold in the theatre, so consider an extra layer. Avoid anything that might block someone’s view.

For official red carpet openings and gala music concerts though, you might want to get dressed up and be glamorous for the evening but it’s not mandatory. Look around the theatre and you’ll see people in African attire, cocktail dresses, collared shirts and chinos or full suits, and families in their Sunday best.

Respect the performers and staff

Actors and theatre staff work hard to create an enjoyable experience for everyone. If you need assistance, speak to an usher politely. Avoid heckling, calling out to the performers, or singing along unless invited – even if you know every word of the soundtrack.

Stay seated until the end

Unless there’s an emergency, stay in your seat until the final curtain call. Leaving early can be disruptive and might prevent you from experiencing a fantastic ending. If you must leave or slip away, try to do so as discreetly as possible.