How to Behave at the Ballet

Attending a ballet performance can be a most moving experience. But nothing spoils the splendor of a ballet performance more than feeling out of place and unsure of how to behave. Knowing proper ballet performance etiquette will surely be a benefit to you and those around you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Visit the website, or call the ballet theater you will be attending for specific instructions.

2. Dress in business or business casual attire. It is not necessary to over dress, but jeans are generally inappropriate.

3. Bring a throat lozenge or cough drop in case of a coughing fit during the ballet performance.Unwrap your lozenge or drop once you are seated to avoid unnecessary noise during the performance.

4. Arrive at the theater 15 to 30 minutes early. You will not be permitted to enter the theater while the dancers are performing. Typically you will be asked to wait in the lobby until intermission.

5. Stow purses under your chair or at the coat check.Turn off all electronic devices such as cell phones, pagers and watch alarms.

6. Watch and enjoy the performance quietly, speaking only during an intermissions. Applaud when appropriate.

7. Leave your seat in an orderly fashion during intermission or at the conclusion of the performance.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are late, be patient and do not demand to speak to management or be rude to the ushers.
• Do not bring young children to the ballet performance. Call the theater ahead of time to see if children are permitted. As a general rule children under four are not permitted. If the child cannot follow the proper etiquette, and sit relatively still for the length of the performance, she is better left at home.
• Do not bring food or beverages. Some theaters will allow you to purchase beverages for consumption during the ballet performance.
• Do not leave the theater before the performance is over unless there is an emergency.
• Do not bring any cameras to the performance. Pictures are strictly forbidden.