The holidays are a big deal for the performing arts — from “The Nutcracker” ballet to theatrical renditions of “A Christmas Carol” and “White Christmas” to holiday themed symphonies and caroling concerts.
This time of year brings families and friends out to the theater to celebrate and create lasting memories — and for some folks, a pair of holiday tickets could mark their first time seeing a show.
“When you attend a concert at the ISO, we hope you’re not only enjoying yourself, but you’re on a bit of an escape,” said James Johnson, CEO of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO). “It’s a different type of experience, and we hope you’ll take the time to listen and really appreciate the artistry of the orchestra and our guest performers.”
Whether a first-timer or seasoned supporter of the arts, here are a few theater etiquette dos and don’ts to keep in mind when attending a performance.
Do have fun
Going to the theater, whether for the symphony, ballet, choir concert or a play, is about having fun, an escape from the real world, Johnson said. The ISO offers a variety of performances throughout the year at Hilbert Circle Theatre, but the “AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration,” is its annual holiday performance — and a tradition for many Hoosiers.
“Yuletide Celebration” is a vibrant Broadway-style production, featuring guest performers Sandi Patty and Curtis Bannister alongside dancing Santas, cirque performers and the sounds of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
Celebrating the holidays by combining live performances with family and friends is the best way to create or continue traditions and create beautiful memories, Danielle M. Dove, director of marketing and sales for the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT), said in an email.
Whether it is someone’s first time or 100th time visiting the IRT, Dove said she cannot wait to invite folks into their space for the holidays, especially with their upcoming production of “Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol,” presented by Old National Bank and directed by cara hinh.
“Traditions are built on togetherness and festive outings, and ‘A Christmas Carol’ at the IRT is certainly a great way to enjoy the holidays while supporting local artists at a nonprofit organization,” Dove said.
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Don’t worry about dressing up
Despite what some may think, dressing up to go to the symphony, ballet or the theater is optional. Johnson recommends dressing in something a bit nicer than “beachwear,” but what is most important is being comfortable. After all, most performances can last anywhere from an hour and two and a half hours.
“Come as you are,” Dove said. “There’s no dress code. Some folks enjoy dressing up for the occasion, whether that’s in ‘going out’ attire or holiday sweater fun. We want to encourage folks to be comfortable.”
Do arrive early
Many venues open their doors an hour before the show starts and send ticket holders a performance reminder via email, Dove said.
Guests should give themselves plenty of time to find a parking spot, check in or pick up tickets from will call, especially when weather conditions and traffic can be unpredictable.
Arriving early also gives families time to explore the venue, admire the holiday decorations, take photos, use the bathroom, get refreshments and find their seats before the show starts, Dove added.
As one of the oldest historic buildings in Indianapolis, Hilbert Circle Theatre has impressive architecture and design, Johnson said. Before the show, the ISO’s resident organist will play the Wurlitzer organ, and families will have the chance to purchase festival holiday food and drinks or take photos with holiday characters.
“We’ve got a beautiful Christmas tree and holiday decorations throughout our theater,” Johnson said. “A lot of people over the years have taken their holiday or family picture for their cards in front of the tree, and it made it a tradition. And we love for people to do that, so the best thing to do is to come a little early.”
Don’t be on your phone
Organizations like the ISO and IRT have obligations with union member performers as well as copyright laws to follow, which means photographing or recording a concert, play, ballet or performance without permission is strictly prohibited.
“Snap those shots of your family in the Grand Lobby in front of the selfie station, the twinkling palm trees, outside the IRT, or in your seats in the OneAmerica Financial Stage, and tag us at @irtlive,” Dove said. “You can take photos of the stage without any actors on it, but be sure to find appropriate crediting information inside the program.”
Otherwise, put the phone down for a few moments and just enjoy the artistry onstage.
“Enjoy this and savor the moment for yourself,” Johnson said. “You will get so much more out of it if you are just using your two eyes and your ears to experience this performance.”
And lastly,
Do engage with the performance
Reactions are encouraged, Dove and Johnson agreed.
Everyone engages with live performances in different ways, such as clapping, cheering, laughing, gasping. Although talking during the performance is not encouraged, all reactions are great, as long as audience members respect one another and the performers onstage.
“We want your honest reactions!” Dove said. “Each performance is unique based on the audience members and how they respond to the various scenes of the show. Some scenes are automatic crowd pleasers, and some get different reactions based on who is in attendance that night.”
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s “AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration” takes place Dec. 6-23, at Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Circle. For more information about show times and tickets, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
The Indiana Repertory Theatre’s “Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol” presented by Old National Bank takes place Nov. 16-Dec. 24, 140 W. Washington St. For more information regarding show times and ticketing, visit irtlive.com.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx.
