Theatre Etiquette

Rochester Broadway Theatre League

It is RBTL’s hope that all patrons who visit the West Herr Auditorium Theatre have an enjoyable experience. Help us create a respectful and immersive environment by following the theatre etiquette guidelines below.

Cell Phones

Please turn off your cell phone (and other devices) or set it to silent (not vibrate). Phones should only be used before/after a show or during intermission, as the glow and sounds are distracting to both patrons and performers. If an emergency call comes in, please exit your seat at an appropriate break.

Fragrances

There are a number of patrons who respond negatively to strongly scented perfumes and colognes. Please use fragrances sparingly prior to a performance to prevent breathing concerns among patrons with asthma, allergies or other sensitivities.

Smoking

Smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes are not permitted inside the facility. If you choose to smoke before, during, or after a performance, please stand away from entrances/exits so that other patrons are not exposed, and so smoke does not enter the building.

Attire

Out of respect for other patrons, please refrain from wearing hats or larger hairstyles that may block the view of those sitting around you. There is no specific dress code at Auditorium Theatre events.

Personal Belongings

Please bring minimal belongings into the Auditorium Theatre with you and be sure they are kept within the confines of your seating location.

Late Arrivals & Early Exits

Many shows have a “hold” at the top of the show and throughout, during which time patrons may not be seated. Please arrive on time for your  performance. If you must leave your seat during a show, please wait until an appropriate applause or scene change so as not to distract performers or patrons around you.

Noise

Please refrain from talking, humming, singing along, or whispering during a performance (unless encouraged to do so by a performer), so as not to distract those around you. Any wrappers or zippers should be taken care of prior to the start of a show.

Trash & Recycling

We take pride in the cleanliness and historical nature of our building. Please return all trash and recycling to the provided receptacles in the lobby following a performance.

Photo/Video

Taking photos and video is not permitted at most performances. Please refrain from recording or taking photographs unless otherwise informed. Members of the media are sometimes an exception to the rule but are given specific guidelines to follow.

Children

Our general guidelines for the minimum age of a child is 5+, unless content is deemed appropriate for an older/younger age group. Please be considerate of other patrons if your child is unable to sit still and quietly through a performance.

Aisles & Railings

Please keep all aisles, stairways and railings free of personal items and concessions. Blocking an aisle is a fire hazard and items placed on a balcony railing can fall and cause damage or injury.

Live theater productions are community events and compliance with the Theatre’s etiquette guidelines is crucial to allow audience members to fully enjoy and participate in the experience. At the discretion of Management, RBTL reserves the right to eject any person that is excessively loud, disruptive, fails to comply with etiquette guidelines, exhibits behavior that threatens or interferes with other people in the theatre, or who risks damage to the venue. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

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