This guide covers everything from phones to food, from late arrivals to standing ovations, so you can navigate West End etiquette with confidence.

If you love theatre, you'll appreciate these guidelines. So will the 2,000 people sitting around you.

The Non-Negotiables

Turn Off Your Phone. Completely.

Not silent. Not vibrate. Off. Or at minimum, airplane mode.

Why this matters:

• The glow of a screen is visible from rows away

• Vibrations travel through old wooden seats

• Actors can see you. It's distracting and disrespectful.

• Emergency? Step outside.

If you need to check your phone at the interval, fine. During the performance, it shouldn't exist.

No Photography or Filming

Professional theatre is a protected art form. Cameras and phones recording is:

• Illegal (breach of copyright)

• Distracting (the glow, the movement)

• Grounds for ejection

Exception: Some shows invite filming during curtain calls. SIX, for example, specifically allows phones for the finale. Wait for explicit permission.

Don't Talk

This seems obvious, but:

• Whispering carries further than you think

• Commentary isn't appreciated by neighbours

• Predicting plot points ruins it for others

• Singing along is not your moment to shine

Save your opinions for the interval or afterwards.

Stay Seated

Getting up during a performance forces an entire row to shuffle, blocks views, and breaks concentration for everyone involved.

Plan bathroom visits for before curtain and during the interval. If you absolutely must leave during performance, wait for a scene change and move quickly.

The Strongly Advised

Arrive on Time

Curtain is curtain. If you arrive late:

• You may not be admitted until a suitable break

• You'll disturb an entire row getting to your seat

• You'll miss content you paid for

Aim to arrive 15-30 minutes early. Find your seat, use the bathroom, buy a programme, relax.

Mind Your Space

Victorian theatres weren't built for modern bodies:

• Keep elbows off armrests you're sharing

• Don't spread into neighbouring seats

• Coats go on your lap or under your seat, not draped over the seatback behind you

• Sit upright; leaning forward blocks the view behind

Be Considerate with Food

Many theatres sell snacks and drinks. If you bring them to your seat:

• Unwrap everything before the lights go down

• Choose quiet foods (no crisps, no rustling)

• Don't bring hot, aromatic food

• Avoid crunching during quiet scenes

Ice cream at the interval is traditional and acceptable. A three-course meal is not.

Control Your Reactions

You're allowed to feel emotions, but:

• Laughing is encouraged (at comedies)

• Gasping at surprises is natural

• Crying is fine (bring tissues)

• Screaming, shouting, or talking at the actors is not

Before the Show

Cloakrooms Exist for a Reason

Check bulky coats and large bags. You'll be more comfortable, and so will your neighbours.

Use the Bathroom

The queue at the interval will be substantial. Go before the show.

Read the Programme

Many shows sell programmes with cast information, photos, and background. Reading it beforehand helps you follow the story.

Pre-Order Interval Drinks

Most theatres let you buy interval drinks before the show, which are then waiting for you at the bar. Skip the queue.

During the Interval

Intervals typically last 15-20 minutes. Use this time to:

• Visit the bathroom

• Get refreshments

• Discuss the show (now you can talk!)

• Stretch your legs

Don't:

• Wander into restricted areas

• Leave the building unless you know you can return

• Take so long that you're late for Act Two

After the Show

Standing Ovations

A standing ovation is earned, not automatic. Stand if:

• The performance genuinely moved you

• You want to show exceptional appreciation

Don't feel pressured to stand just because others are. Equally, don't judge those who remain seated.

Curtain Calls

Stay for the bows. The cast has earned their moment. Leaving during curtain call is rude.

Stage Door

Waiting at the stage door to meet performers is a lovely tradition:

• Be patient; they need to change and wind down

• Be polite; they've just worked for hours

• Have something ready to sign if you want autographs

• A quick photo request is usually fine; a conversation is not guaranteed

Exit Gradually

2,000 people trying to leave at once creates chaos. Take your time. Don't push.

Special Situations

If You're Unwell

Coughing happens. Bring cough sweets. If you're genuinely ill, consider staying home rather than spending three hours suppressing symptoms.

If Someone Near You Is Disruptive

Most theatres have ushers. If someone's phone is glowing, if they're talking, if they're genuinely ruining your experience, quietly alert a member of staff at the interval.

If You Brought Children

Choose age-appropriate shows. Prepare them for theatre rules. Sit near an aisle in case exit is needed. If a child is inconsolable, take them out.

If You're Very Tall

Consider aisle seats. Be aware you may block views. Sit upright rather than leaning forward.

If You're Hard of Hearing

Many theatres offer hearing loops and assistive devices. Book directly with the venue to arrange.

The Bottom Line

Theatre etiquette comes down to one principle: Be considerate.

You've all paid to be there. You all want to enjoy the show. Simple awareness of how your behaviour affects others makes the experience better for everyone.

Book Your Show

Ready to demonstrate excellent theatre etiquette? Book London theatre through tickadoo:

• Les Misérables

• The Lion King

• Wicked

• Hamilton

• Mamma Mia!

• SIX

• ABBA Voyage

Now you know the rules. What Do You Wanna Doo?

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