A First-Timer's Guide to Theater Etiquette in San Diego

Live theater has a magic that no screen can match. The lights go down, the room goes quiet, and real people tell a story just a few feet away. If you have never been to a play or musical before, though, it is natural to wonder about the unwritten rules. When should you clap? Can you bring a drink to your seat? What happens if you are late?

San Diego has a lively theater scene, from major regional houses and touring Broadway productions to small neighborhood stages. This guide covers the etiquette that applies almost everywhere, so you can relax and enjoy the show.

Before you go

Check your tickets and the venue

Confirm the date, time, and venue on your tickets. Some organizations perform in more than one theater, and some venues have several stages. Look up parking or transit options in advance, since popular areas can get busy before a show.

Read the venue's policies

Each theater sets its own rules on bags, food and drink, late seating, and age requirements. Checking the venue's website before you go avoids surprises at the door.

Decide what to wear

Most San Diego theaters have no formal dress code. Smart casual is the safe middle ground, and comfort matters for a long performance. Our guide to what to wear to the theater in San Diego covers this in more detail. A light layer is handy, since auditoriums can be cool.

Arriving on time

Aim to arrive early. Giving yourself extra time lets you park, collect tickets, find your seat, visit the restroom, and read the program without rushing.

If you are late, you may not be seated until a suitable break in the performance, and in some cases not until intermission. This rule exists to protect the experience for performers and the rest of the audience. Ushers will guide you when it is appropriate.

Finding your seat

• Follow the ushers. They know the house and can direct you quickly.
• Face the people you pass. When moving along a row, it is considered polite to face the seated guests rather than turn your back to them.
• Sit in your assigned seat. Even if better seats look empty, they may belong to someone arriving later.
• Keep belongings compact. Store bags and coats under your seat or on your lap, out of the aisle.

During the performance

Phones off, not just silent

This is the most important rule. Turn your phone off or put it in a mode that silences calls, alerts, and vibrations. Even a dimmed screen is distracting in a dark theater, so keep it away during the show. Photography and recording are generally not allowed during performances.

Keep conversation for later

Whispered comments carry farther than you think. Save your reactions for intermission or after the show.

Be mindful of noise

Unwrap cough drops before the performance starts, avoid rustling bags, and silence watch alarms. If you need to cough, try to wait for a louder moment or a break.

Food and drink

Some venues allow drinks purchased in the lobby to be taken to your seat, while others do not. Follow the venue's policy and be considerate with crunchy snacks or noisy packaging.

When to applaud

Applause etiquette varies slightly by type of performance, but a few guidelines help.

• Musicals: Applause after big songs and dance numbers is normal and welcomed.
• Plays: Audiences usually save applause for the ends of acts and the curtain call, although an especially memorable moment may earn a spontaneous response.
• Entrances: Applause for a star's first entrance happens at some shows, but follow the audience's lead.
• Curtain call: Stay to applaud the cast at the end. Standing ovations are common but never required.

When in doubt, wait and follow the crowd. You will never go wrong by joining in rather than leading.

Intermission

Many productions have an intermission partway through. Use it to stretch, visit the restroom, and get a drink. Lines can form quickly, so head out promptly. Listen for signals that the performance is about to resume, such as lobby chimes or flashing lights, and return to your seat in time.

Bringing children

Theater can be a wonderful experience for young people. Choose shows suited to their age and attention span, and check the venue's age policy, since some theaters do not admit very young children to certain performances. Family-friendly productions and children's theater are great introductions. Our guide to children's theater in San Diego has ideas.

After the show

Exit calmly, and be patient in crowded aisles and parking areas. Some productions offer post-show talks with the creative team or cast, which can be a fascinating way to learn more. And if you enjoyed the experience, tell friends and consider returning. Our guide to getting the best deals on theatre tickets in San Diego can help you plan your next visit.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I arrive late to a play?

You may be asked to wait until a suitable break before being seated, and some productions only seat latecomers at intermission. Arriving early is the best way to avoid missing anything.

Can I take photos during the show?

Generally, no. Photography and recording are usually prohibited during performances. Some venues allow photos of the stage before the show or during curtain calls, so check the policy.

Is it rude to leave at intermission?

It is not ideal, but it happens. If you must leave, do so quietly during intermission rather than mid-performance.

Do I have to stand for a standing ovation?

No. Applaud however feels right to you. Standing is a personal choice.