Decorum at a Ballet Performance

CEBU, Philippines - A ballet performance - say, the "Swan Lake" - is approximately two and a half hours long, with short intermissions. The performance time can vary from one performing company to another.

It is advisable for audience members to come on time, in order not to miss the beginning part of the performance, as well as to avoid the inconvenience of having to pass in front of others. A ballet tells a story through dance, and those not familiar with the ballet's story and its characters are good to do a little research on it before attending the performance. This helps them understand the presentation and know what to expect.

One shall dress up properly for the performance. As a general rule in live theatrical presentations, eating and drinking during the performance shall be avoided. Mobile phones shall be switched off. Use of camera flash - or taking photographs - is often not allowed, so it is best to first ask permission from the show organizers.

People going to their seats, crossing in front of others, need some space, and it's polite for those already seated to stand and raise their own seats to make room. Those crossing in front of others shall face them - it's very awkward to put one's butt in people's faces.

When seated in one of the first several rows, an audience member can be seen by the performers, and so shall be mindful of the expression on his or her face. It's pretty common, even if really enjoying the performance, to have a sullen expression, and this can rattle some performers. Even simple inattention can be distracting, like talking to seatmates.

Applauding may be done only at the right times, and it often takes keen sensitivity to determine when these times are. (FREEMAN)