Going to the Theatre
for the First Time

Then look for shows on that date — this is often easier than picking a show and trying to find availability.

The theatre's own website avoids booking fees. For West End shows, we recommend our London Theatre Direct partner link.

Stalls (ground floor, close to stage) give the best view. Circle (first balcony) offers a good overview. Avoid extreme side seats for your first visit.

Students, under-30s, NHS staff, Blue Light Card holders and seniors often get 10–50% off. Day tickets and returns are released on the morning of performance.

Most theatres now accept e-tickets on your phone. Screenshot it in case you lose signal.

You can usually pick up will-call tickets at the box office with your booking reference and a card. Allow 10 minutes if there's a queue.

Staff in the foyer are there to help. They'll show you to your seat, answer questions and let you know about any cast changes posted on the board.

Programmes cost £4–£8 and contain cast bios, the story, photos and creative team notes. A lovely keepsake, especially for your first show.

Theatre bars open before the show and serve drinks you can take to your seat (in plastic cups). Interval drinks can be pre-ordered to collect during the break — ask at the bar when you arrive.

Use the toilets before the show starts. Queues at interval can be 10+ minutes at popular productions. Most theatres have facilities on each level.

Switch it to silent — not just vibrate. A buzzing phone in a quiet dramatic moment is mortifying. Most people take a photo of the stage before curtain-up, then put it away entirely.

The lights come down and the stage goes dark for a moment. Stay in your seat and start applauding.

Performers come out in order — ensemble first, then supporting cast, then leads. Each wave is greeted with applause.

The stars take their bow to the biggest applause of the night. This is your moment to show appreciation.

If the audience feels the show was exceptional, people start to rise. You can join if you agree — or stay seated if you don't. Never feel pressured either way.

It's considered rude to leave before the curtain call ends. Wait for the house lights to fully come up. The cast can see you leaving.

Photography and filming during performances is banned in virtually every professional theatre. Flash photography in particular can distract performers and cause seizures. You can take photos in the auditorium before the show begins — most theatres are happy for you to photograph the set and your seats.

Most shows have a recommended minimum age, listed on the booking page. Panto and family shows are usually for all ages. West End dramas may be 14+. Musicals vary — check before booking. Many theatres offer under-16 discounts.

It happens — cover your mouth and try to time it during a loud moment such as applause or a musical number. Bringing cough sweets is perfectly reasonable. Don't try to suppress a cough to the point of distraction.

You can usually bring food purchased from the theatre into the auditorium. Outside food brought in from outside is typically not allowed. Avoid anything in crinkly wrappers.

Some theatre rewards multiple viewings. If you're lost, lean into it — theatre often communicates emotionally rather than purely narratively. Reading a brief synopsis beforehand can help. Reading the full script in advance is not cheating.

It's not rude, but it's noticeable. If you're not enjoying it, it's better to leave at interval than to walk out mid-act. Performers understand that not every show suits every person.

Yes — many theatres release single tickets that are hard to pair with others. This can sometimes get you into premium seating at a discount. Box seats often fit single visitors perfectly.