Is it Ethical to Take an Empty Seat in a Theater? | Operavore | WQXR (2024)

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Is it Ethical to Take an Empty Seat in a Theater? | Operavore | WQXR (2024)

FAQs

Is it Ethical to Take an Empty Seat in a Theater? | Operavore | WQXR? ›

Answer: You can't take the seat before a performance starts. People are allowed to be late. But once an event is (roughly) half over, you can occupy whatever wasted space you find.

Can I sit in empty seats in theatre? ›

You have the right to occupy any empty seat in the theater if you paid for a ticket. The only exception would be if a person reserved the seat in advance which isn't likely. When you go to the movie theatre, do you leave an empty seat between you and the next person? Yes.

Can you move to empty seats at a Broadway show? ›

According to the strictest reading of your ticket contract, you purchased a seat for the duration of the show and moving to another is stealing, even if that seat is unused or unsold. In many cases, you may move as long as you are staying within the same section or price range. Or, if you ask the usher if it's okay.

Why did theaters start assigning seats? ›

Why are movie theaters assigned seats? Because when you go to a theater with a companion you do not want to sit separated from that companion if you can help it. If you go alone, you'd like to have a seat where you can see the screen properly, not too near, not too far, not too far off to one side.

Can you move seats in a theater? ›

They do not care. As long as you aren't in someone's seat who has asked you to move, go for it.

Does it matter where you sit in a theatre? ›

Typically, stalls seats can be regarded as some of the best seats in the auditorium, due to their close proximity to the stage. If you're sitting in the first few rows of the stalls seats, you may even be able to touch the stage and see performers blink.

What are you not allowed to say in theatre? ›

Don't Say “Macbeth!” This has long been part of the actor's folklore, and there are dozens of theories about when, where, and why performers started avoiding the play's title—instead referring to the drama as “The Scottish Play.” Theatre folklore cites several instances of mysterious and sudden deaths during ...

Can you move to empty seats at a concert? ›

Unless they have other requirements as described above for you to remain in your assigned seat, they can usually handle a few moves, but if they still have count issues they may ask you to move back to make things simpler for them (especially if you moved from one section to another, separated by galleys or the like).

What does sro mean on Broadway? ›

Some venues issue standing-room-only (or SRO) tickets for a reduced cost since it can become uncomfortable to stand through the course of an event. However, some fans prefer standing-room-only tickets, as the crowds that gather can be more active than people who are sitting down for much of the event.

Are Broadway seats fat friendly? ›

Although it varies by Broadway Theatre (as some of the redesigned theatres have slightly larger seats), the accepted maximum weight for a Broadway seat is 250 lbs. The maximum height is 6'2". Anything above those parameters will be uncomfortable for the patron and distracting for the other patrons at the show.

Why are theatre seats always red? ›

Because, when the lights are dimmed in movie theaters, red seats and curtains become invisible more easily than blue or green colors. This makes it easier for the audience to focus and adapt to the movie they are watching. In addition, the color red increases the contrast of colors in the film, improving image quality.

What is the best way to choose seats in a theatre? ›

Experts recommend the seats farthest from the screen, specifically the second or third row from the back and in the middle, for the ultimate cinematic experience.

What is typically the best seats in a theatre? ›

While filmmakers and film tech experts may have varied opinions on the ideal seat, there seems to be a consensus that the second or third row from the back, along with seats in the middle, offer an exceptional viewing experience.

Is it okay to move to an empty seat? ›

After all the passengers are on board the aircraft and they shut the boarding door, usually you are allowed to change to another empty seat. You must stay in your same class. Economy class passengers must stay in economy class.

What are the cheapest seats in a theatre called? ›

The cheap seat is also commonly referred to as the "nosebleed section" of a venue.

Where is the best seats to sit in a theatre? ›

The second or third row from the back, along with seats in the middle, are recommended for optimal sound quality and viewing experience. Avoid front-row seats and corner seats for better angles and audio.

Can you go to the toilet during theatre? ›

3. Go to the toilet BEFORE the show starts. We know that queues for the toilet in a theatre can be as long as the Nile, but getting up during the performance to empty your bladder is not acceptable, it's distracting to those around you and often to those on stage.

How does seating work in theaters? ›

Seats in a theatre are typically numbered from aisle to wall, or, in the case of the center sections, from left to right. Seat numbering is also typically Odd numbers on the left, Even numbers on the Right, and sequentially in the 100's in the center. The Rows are lettered front to back A - Z.

Does seating matter on Broadway? ›

For musicals, orchestra seats are often the preferred choice as they offer an intimate connection with the performers and their voices. Aim for seats in the center section for the most balanced view. Front Mezzanine: If you prefer a broader perspective and a slightly elevated view, consider the front mezzanine.

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