THE THEATREGOER’S GUIDE

ETIQUETTE, ESSENTIALS, AND THE SECRETS
TO A PERFECT NIGHT AT THE THEATRE.

Rule I:
The Curtain Call

Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the “Curtain Up” time. Most venues won’t seat latecomers until a suitable break in the performance.

Rule II:
The digital Dark

Switch off all mobile phones. The glow of a screen is as distracting to the actors as it is to your neighbours.

Rule III:
The dRESS CODE

There is no formal dress code for the West End. Whether you’re in a tuxedo or trainers, you are welcome – though many enjoy “dressing for the occasion.”

Photography and filming are strictly prohibited during the performance to protect the copyright of the production and to avoid distracting the cast. However, taking a “programme selfie” or a photo of the stage before the show starts is usually encouraged!

Most historic West End theatres have very limited space. While they usually have a small cloakroom for coats and umbrellas, they cannot accept large suitcases. We recommend using “left luggage” facilities at nearby stations like Charing Cross or Victoria.

London traffic can be unpredictable! If you arrive after the show has started, “Front of House” staff will ask you to wait in the foyer until a “Latecomers Point” – usually a scene change or the end of a musical number – to ensure the performance isn’t disrupted.

While theatres have their own bars and snack counters, you can usually bring small, cold snacks and plastic bottled water. Avoid anything in noisy crinkly wrappers or glass bottles, as the acoustics in these buildings are incredibly sensitive!

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY: GETTING AROUND THE WEST END
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