MADISON, Wis. -- Theatre fans are gearing up for the opening of the Overture Center. Whether you'll be going to a show for the first time or are a seasoned theatre veteran, it's helpful to brush up on show-going etiquette.
"It's always nice to kind of brush up on some tips that will help you feel more comfortable," said Sherri Trent, with the Madison Symphony Orchestra. "We certainly want everyone to feel welcome as soon as they step foot into the Overture hall."
Trent is a seasoned showgoer, but even she believes one step into the breathtaking new Overture hall could cause anyone to forget his or her manners.
Her first tip is to arrive early and allow time for parking.
"Unless you want to sit out in lobby, show up about 15 minutes early," said Trent. "That means stepping into the concert hall 15 minutes early."
Trent said a bigger issue for symphony goers is when to clap.
"The best advice we can give you is if you feel so moved by a performance go ahead and clap. There are 90 musicians on stage playing their hearts out for you and your applause means everything to them," said Trent.
If you're not comfortable being one of a few people clapping in-between, Trent says wait for conductor to lower his or her arms to know the piece is over.
If you're wondering what to wear, there is no dress code for the theatre.
"On symphony opening night, you may see more formal wear, such as ball gowns and tuxedoes," said Trent. "But that's to go to after-concert dinner parties. The formal attire is really only for the opening night of the symphony. Generally speaking khakis, jeans and shorts are acceptable, as well.
And, while you want to look like a million when you attend a show, don't smell like one.
Fragrance is a very "sense" –itive issue.
"If everyone is wearing heavy perfumes or scented lotions, they may smell nice as an individual, but as soon as you bring everyone together into a confined space, it can be really overwhelming," said Trent.
Trent encourages theatre patrons to use lotions and fragrances in moderation, or better yet, skip them all together.
And, while many families want to expose their children to the culture offered by the Overture Center, kids under age 6 are not allowed in many performances. If you have questions, check with the box office to be sure.
And last but not least, don't forget to turn off anything that makes unwanted noise, such as cell phones or pagers.
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Grand Opening: A, B, Cs Of Overture
