Going to the Theater!

2014 Christmas Concert for the Troops at the Kennedy Center

I recently had the pleasure of attending the USO-Metro and Gary Sinise Foundation 2014 Holiday Concert for the Troops. The night was wonderful and the performances were truly amazing! With the Holiday Season upon us, I realized many people will be attending holiday concerts, plays, and musicals. The theater is traditionally known as a place for elegance, grace, and the best of manners. In that spirit, I am sharing my thoughts on how to be a positively proper “theater-goer!”

1. Dress the Part
   • Most theaters will be business or casual cocktail attire. Think professional yet fancy and also a little fun.
     • Ladies: A pencil skirt or dress pants with a pretty blouse is perfect! Also, a casual cocktail dress fits the occasion well.
     • Gentlemen: A suit is absolutely the way to go!
   • For the regal setting, think elegant formal wear.
     • Ladies: A formal cocktail dress or tasteful, floor length gown is appropriate.
     • Gentlemen: Wear a formal suit and tie or tuxedo (for the fanciest of occasions).
2. Arrive Early
   • Give yourself plenty of time to find parking, check your coat, and pick-up your tickets.
   • Often times, you can buy concessions or have a drink and socialize prior to entering the performance.
   • Use the restroom prior to entering the performance.
   • When the lights dim or the the bell chimes, start making your way to your seat.
3. Mind Your Manners
   • Silence your cell phone and put it away for the duration of the show.
     • The ringing of a phone can ruin a song or interrupt an important moment in a performance.
     • The back-light from your cell phone ruins the ambiance of the theater and can even mess with the lighting depending on the size of the theater.
   • Taking photos during the performance is highly discouraged. (I took mine before the show began and the lights went down 😉 )
   • Chatting with your neighbors throughout the show is absolute no. It is disrespectful to the performers and the people around you will not appreciate it as you will certainly cause a distraction.
   • Refrain from singing along with the performers (unless encouraged to do so). I am sure you can belt out the tunes, but the audience came to see/hear the performers, not you. 😉
   • Stay in your seat throughout the show.
     • It is very rude and can be quite distracting if you are walking around during the show.
     • Wait until intermission or the end of the performance.
   • If you need assistance during the performance, signal an usher. They will gladly help you.

Now that you are well prepared to attend a holiday performance, go hit the theater! Remember to support your local schools, community theaters, and benefit concerts during this time.

Happy Theater Going!

Sparkle On,

Alexandra

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