Theatre Etiquette Guidelines for School Groups

We want your students to have the best possible experience at the theatre. 

Please review the expectations below with your class before attending.

Food and drink

No food or drink is allowed inside the building. This includes coffee, tea, soft drinks (in bottles or cans), and any kind of food. Only water is permitted.

Arrival and seating

Arrive early

Timely arrival allows us to seat all guests efficiently and ensures you do not miss the beginning of the performance. We kindly ask that you arrive no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. Performances are intended to commence at the time indicated on your ticket or confirmation; however, minor delays may occasionally occur.

Enter quietly and sit where assigned

The House Manager will let your group know when it is time to enter. Walk in single file, follow ushers’ instructions, and sit only in your designated seats. If a student requires a different seat due to accessibility or special needs, please speak with the House Manager—we will do our best to accommodate.

General behaviour inside the auditorium

Follow the performers’ lead

Many school performances are interactive, and students may be encouraged to clap, shout, or respond loudly. If the performers invite you to join in, go for it! Otherwise, stay quiet and attentive so everyone can enjoy the show.

Be respectful

Live theatre is a shared experience, and we ask that you help maintain a respectful environment for everyone. Please avoid side conversations, keep your feet off the seats, and remain in your seat unless it is absolutely necessary to leave. If you do need to step out—for example, to use the washroom—please exit quietly. An usher will assist you with re-entry, which may require waiting for an appropriate break in the performance.

Devices off

Phones and other electronics must be turned off and put away before the show starts. Texting, taking photos, or using devices is not permitted.

Chaperones

We recommend one adult chaperone for every 10 students. Chaperones should remain with their group for the duration of the performance and are encouraged to sit among the students to provide supervision and support. Ideally, chaperones should be seated at the ends of the group, with students seated between them, to help maintain order and ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

Final notes

• Feel free to laugh, react, and applaud, where appropriate —especially at the end to thank the performers.
• When the lights come up, remain seated. Groups will be dismissed row by row, starting from the back of the theatre.
• Please follow the theatre staff’s instructions and help us make the experience great for everyone.

We look forward to welcoming your group to the theatre!