Heading to a West End show isn’t just a night out, it’s a live, shared experience where every person in the room helps keep the magic alive. The actors give it their all, the backstage crew works in near-silence, and your fellow audience members want to get lost in the story.
1. Why good manners still matter
A theatre show is a team effort. Actors need to focus, the crew needs silence, and the audience wants to get lost in the story. One buzzing phone, relentlessly lighting smart watch screen when you revolve your wrist, or crinkling sweet wrappers can snap everyone out of the moment. Treat the space (and the people in it) with respect, and the whole room enjoys the magic together.
2. Get there early
- Aim to arrive at least 20 minutes before the show. You’ll need time to get through the queue, clear bag checks, find the loo and settle in without stepping over knees.
- Matinees are busier. School trips and coach groups mean longer queues, so add an extra ten minutes.
- Running late? Many theatres hold latecomers outside until a scene break, so you might miss the opening.
3. Phones: off really means off
- Switch to airplane mode. Vibrations travel through old wooden seats.
- Dim the screen. A bright phone a few rows ahead is more distracting than you think.
- No sneaky filming. It breaks the rules, and ushers will spot the glow straight away.
- Need to check transport times? Wait for the interval.
4. Sitting still without driving others mad
- Mind your space. Keep elbows in and knees forward, Victorian seats are tight.
- Coats go on laps or under seats so you’re not squashing neighbours. Never over the seatback – it interferes with the (limited) leg space of the person behind you.
- Quiet snacks only. Unwrap sweets before lights go down; choose soft bites over crunchy ones.
- Plan loo breaks. Climbing out mid-scene is annoying for everyone. If it’s truly urgent, crouch and whisper sorry as you pass.
5. Talking rules
- Chat before the lights fade. Share fun facts, guess plots, go for it.
- Once the show starts, whisper at most. But don’t even do that. Even low voices carry in a quiet theatre.
- Save deep opinions for the bar. Actors can hear you, especially in smaller venues.
6. Show the performers respect
- No flash photos. It blinds actors and breaks licence rules.
- React naturally but don’t hog attention. Laugh, gasp or cry. Just don’t shout lines or add commentary. And don’t laugh louder than everyone else. It’s really annoying.
- Stand only if you mean it. Give a standing ovation when a show truly moves you, not because others jump up first.
7. Interval tips
- Pre-order drinks. Most bars let you pay before the show, so you skip the queue later.
- Queue kindly for loos. Ask if there are spare cubicles before pushing ahead.
- Be nice to ice-cream sellers. They’re balancing heavy trays in tight aisles, smiles help.
8. Bows and getting out
- Stay seated for the curtain call. The cast has earned that moment.
- Clap until the house lights rise. Tech crews are shutting things down safely.
- Leave calmly, row by row. Pushing ahead only slows everyone.
9. Common myths busted
- “You must wear black tie.” Only gala nights call for it; most shows are fine with smart-casual.
- “Silent phones are okay.” Vibrations and screen glare still distract; airplane mode is safer.
- “Standing ovations are expected.” Only stand if the show blows you away.
- “Snacks are banned.” Soft, quiet snacks are fine; noisy wrappers are not.
10. Accessibility
- Tell the box office early. Captioned, audio-described and relaxed shows fill up fast.
- Ask about step-free routes. Many old theatres have just one.
- Guide dogs welcome. Book an aisle seat so your dog has space.
11. Bringing children
- Check age limits. Some shows won’t admit under-fives.
- Set expectations. Explain that lights go down and quiet is important; reward with interval ice-cream.
- Choose aisle seats. Handy if attention fades before Act Two.
12. Keep it green
- Recycle programmes in foyer bins or hand them to ushers.
- Bring a refillable bottle. Most bars will top it up.
- Walk or use public transport. Tube stations are minutes away; taxis crawl in West End traffic.
Great theatre depends on everyone playing their part. Arrive on time, silence your tech, keep chatter low and treat performers, staff and fellow fans with respect. Do that, and you’ll help turn an ordinary night out into something unforgettable. Curtain up, enjoy the show!