🎭 New to Theatre? Here Are Some Theater Etiquette Rules Everyone Should Know

Directors and Drama Teachers: Share this with your students to help them feel confident and prepared!

When you’re new to theatre, there are so many unspoken rules that it can feel like everyone else got a secret handbook. But instead of making you figure it out on your own, this post is here to pull back the curtain and share the key etiquette tips every performer should know—especially helpful for student actors just starting out.

⏰ "Being on Time Is Late"

This classic theatre saying holds true in most rehearsal rooms.

What it means:
When rehearsal starts at 4:00 PM, that doesn't mean you arrive at 4:00 PM. That means you're already:

• Signed in (if required)

• Props and script in place

• Water bottle filled

• Bathroom break done

• Fully ready to begin warm-ups

Arrive 10–15 minutes early so you're ready to jump in physically and mentally.

🎭 When in Doubt, Leave It

Props and costumes are not toys—they’re tools for performance.

• Only handle props during your scene or with permission.

• Always return props to the designated prop table after use.

• Never touch or try on someone else’s costume—no exceptions.

• Even your own props should only be used when called for.

Respect for materials = respect for the production.

🗣️ Know When to Talk—and When Not To

Rehearsal is a focused working time. Socializing, side chatter, and offering unsolicited suggestions can distract from the process.

Do talk:

• When you're in a scene

• When asked a question

• If something is a safety issue (ask at a break)

Don't talk:

• Just to fill silence (sometimes directors are thinking)

• Over others or during blocking

• To offer feedback unless asked

Remember: directors have a full vision. They might be quiet to mentally map out staging. Don’t interrupt—wait to be invited to collaborate.

👥 Who to Go to for What

Every theatre has its own flow, but here’s a standard breakdown:

Stage Manager:

• First point of contact for scheduling/attendance

• The person to notify if you’re running late

• Keeper of blocking and line notes

• Gives you missed information if you were absent

Director:

• Go to for creative questions (about your character or performance)

• Ask for clarification during breaks or after rehearsal

• Share your ideas for your character only—not for costumes, other actors, or set design

🧰 Be Rehearsal-Ready

You should bring the following to every rehearsal:

• Script (highlighted if allowed)

• Pencil with eraser

• Water bottle

• Notebook for notes (not your phone—looks disrespectful!)

• Appropriate clothing/shoes (dance shoes, skirts, etc.)

• A light snack if rehearsal is long

✅ Be memorized by deadlines
✅ Know your blocking and review it regularly
✅ Keep your materials organized and in one place

Final Thoughts

Rehearsal should be a space where you can grow, collaborate, and shine—and understanding theatre etiquette helps everyone feel more confident and respected.

If you’re a student, bookmark this post or print it out.
If you’re a teacher, feel free to share this with your cast at the beginning of the season.

🎭 Break a leg and happy performing!