Singing in the theater: A delicate balance between enjoyment and etiquette
The theater experience is a delicate dance between the audience's desire to immerse themselves in the show and the performers' need for uninterrupted focus. While some theaters have strict rules against singing, others embrace it as a form of engagement. The key lies in finding a balance that respects both the performers and the audience.
The Singing Debate
A heated debate on Reddit highlights the divide between those who sing along and those who find it disruptive. The Landmark Theatre in Syracuse, New York, has become a battleground for this issue. With the rise of movie-style musicals, some audiences are accustomed to singing along, but the Landmark's executive director, Mike Intaglietta, emphasizes the importance of creating a respectful environment for all.
The Impact of Covid Isolation
Chris Peterson, a Broadway enthusiast, believes the Covid-era isolation has affected our social behavior. We've lost our 'social muscle memory,' making it harder to be present and considerate in a theater setting. This reset is crucial to remind audiences that theater is an immersive experience that requires active participation and respect for others.
Broadway Etiquette
The Landmark Theatre introduced a set of 'Broadway Etiquette' rules, including no singing along, to address complaints. While some commenters pushed back, arguing that performers can't hear individual audience members, Intaglietta points out that actors are aware of disruptions. Broadway theaters, with their larger capacities, have stricter etiquette rules, and actors may even call out disruptive behavior.
Regional Theater Perspectives
Smaller regional theaters like Syracuse Stage and The Rev have different experiences. Their smaller sizes create a more intimate relationship between the audience and performers. Director of marketing Joanna Penalva and director of marketing Josh Katzker emphasize the importance of audience engagement and respect for the venue and performers.
The Rise of Younger Audiences
The rise of younger audiences, accustomed to digital distractions, presents a unique challenge. Albert Nocciolino, president of NAC, acknowledges the changing expectations of theatergoers. While he welcomes younger audiences, he understands their habits differ from previous generations. This shift in audience behavior requires theaters to adapt their programming and etiquette rules.
The Art of Respect
Temar Underwood, artistic director of Redhouse, highlights the importance of creating a comfortable environment for newer audience members. He programs shows with length and intermissions in mind, allowing for breaks. Respect in the theater extends beyond etiquette; it's about creating a shared experience that respects cultural differences and the performers' dedication.
The Tricky Line
Kerby Thompson, producing artistic director of Cortland Repertory, acknowledges the tricky line between audience engagement and disruption. While applause and laughter are desirable, strict rules like no talking can make the experience feel sterile. Performers rely on the audience's participation, and disruptions can affect their performance.
The Way Forward
The theater world, much like Major League Baseball, leaves etiquette guidelines to individual venues. If disruptions occur, the next step depends on the theater. At larger venues like the Landmark and Redhouse, ushers can intervene. At smaller theaters like Cortland Rep and The Rev, direct but polite addressing of issues may be more effective. Ultimately, creating a respectful and immersive theater experience requires a balance between enjoyment and etiquette.
