Enjoy Live Theatre

I have attended live theatre performances for many years. It is exciting and thrilling to see  people on stage right in front of me. The acting, singing and dancing  are a true joy  to observe. I especially enjoy live community theatre. The close and intimate space  provides an amazing chance to engage more  than performances at larger venues.

Won’t Watch Theatre on Videoconferencing

Yet, when the pandemic  struck in 2020 theatres shut down  and like most people I stop going. Many theatres  slowly started offering an alternative to watch performances  via videoconference. I made a meager attempt to attend  but felt disconnected  from what was actually happening on the  stage. Watching from a computer monitor was just not the same. Plus, I missed the interaction I had with other theatre goers. Sitting amongst the crowd provided  ample opportunities  to converse, laugh  and connect as a group. So, I begged off and decided to pass.

I had just signed up for season tickets right before the pandemic  and was disappointed  that I couldn’t go. My local theatre  suggested  instead of a refund to wait.  I did and now the theatre is back open and I have attended about 3 plays this year. The First one was the day before  World Theatre Day on March 27. The production was about  love and relationships. The ups and downs  of a couple  dealing with life and raising a child. Pretty typical stuff, right? Yeah it was, but the ability to be in person was just awesome and here’s why.

Clear COVID Instructions

1. The theatre gave clear instructions on COVID restrictions. When the decision  came to reopen, the theatre communicated  with patrons  the expectations. I knew  well in advance to wear a facemask. I had to have a negative COVID test or a vaccine card. I also had to provide photo ID. These  protocols helped me feel more comfortable  about returning. I knew there would be safety measures in place.

Easy Transportation Arrangements

2. After selecting my ticket, the theatre not only sent me a confirmation  but additional info. In my email I was given  background on the performance  along with the estimated run time.  In the past I would have to call to find out when the performance was ending. Since I use  paratransit, a specialized public transportation service, I have to tell my ride when to  come and return. This saved me a phone call and I could schedule my transportation  easier.

Seating Spread Out

3. Once I arrived and checked in, the usher told me about  where to wait until the doors opened. We had the option to sit inside  or outside  on benches under a  canopy-style tent. When it was time, the usher guided me to my seat. We were spread out a bit and everyone seemed comfortable with the arrangement.

This whole experience  really helped me to feel better about being out and in crowds again. Prior I was feeling cagey about  returning to my old routine. I realize the pandemic is not totally over but we still have to continue with life. How and what that looks like  is the thing we are learning daily.

Are You Attending Live Theatre?

Have you gotten out again since the pandemic? Why or why not. If you have  what things did you do to feel better about the experience?