Know Before You Go

How to See a Play

Find Something Interesting
Check out our listed shows and find one that looks interesting, scary, or exciting!

Snatch Those Tickets!
You can get tickets in lots of ways - via a theater's website, on the phone, or in-person before the show.

Plan Your Adventure
Grab some food beforehand (or make something yummy before you leave!), check the show's location, and plan a little extra time for parking or bussing.

Enjoy the Show!
Sit down, take off your jacket, and see what happens onstage! Maybe you laugh, maybe you cry, either way you'll have something to talk about after.

But What Happens During a Play?

There can be a lot of "rules" that people feel like they have to follow when they go to see a play. Some of those rules can be important (after all, we all want to have a good time at a show, and want to take care of everyone else's experience) but if a rule makes you feel unwelcome or unwanted, that makes it a pretty bad rule. Luckily, theaters (especially the smaller ones) are getting a lot better at creating spaces for people to show up however feels best for them. Remember, the artists want you there!

If it sounds appealing, lots of theaters do "sensory-friendly" nights where they tone down some of the technical elements and offer fidget toys for audience members. Or they'll have certain nights of the week where they provide closed captioning, if you'd like to read along. If you have concerns or questions about a specific thing that might happen in they play you've picked, lots of theaters offer guides that warn you about sensitive topics, bright lights/loud noises, and even give you a video of what the theater looks like so you know what to expect before walking in.

The details of exactly what to do once you walk into the theater might feel important, but the best thing you can do is have a good time! You can hang out in the lobby until the show is just about to start, or go and sit in your seat as soon as you arrive. Some theaters have snacks and drinks, and all of them will at least have a water fountain. Once the show begins, talking to people around you is discouraged, but laughing and reacting to the show is a wonderful thing to do! Lots of people feel like they have to be totally quiet during a play, but actors love to know when they are being funny! Plays that are longer than an hour and a half usually have an intermission - a break in the play. It lasts about ten minutes, and gives everyone a chance to use the bathroom, stretch their legs, or get a snack. The second half of the play is usually a little shorter, and once the play ends, everyone claps. The actors come out and bow, and that's it! You leave with the rest of the audience members, and then (one of the under-rated, but really fun parts) you get to talk about what happened in the show with your friends on the way home!

We hope this helps going to a play seem a little less intimidating - remember that it should be fun, and everyone wants you there! Time that we get to spend with other people is very special, and theaters are delighted to be that place - at least for a night!

Discussion Guides

Before the Play:

Expectations: What do you know about the play? What are you most excited or curious to see?
Themes: Are there any known themes or issues in the play? How do they relate to current events or personal experiences?
Characters: If you know the characters, who intrigues you the most, and why?

During the Play:

Observations: What moments stand out the most? Are there particular scenes or lines that resonate with you?
Design Elements: How do the costumes, set, lighting, or sound contribute to the atmosphere and storytelling?

After the Play:

Themes and Lessons: What do you think the play was ultimately about? What messages or questions did it leave you with?
Favorite Moments: Which performances or scenes were the most memorable, and why?
Connections: Did the play remind you of any other stories, movies, or personal experiences?
Impact: How did the play make you feel? Has it shifted your perspective or left you inspired?

What should I wear to the theater?

There’s no strict dress code for attending a play, especially in Seattle! If you like dressing up, it is wonderful to wear something a little fancier, but no one will kick you out if you show up in sweatpants. Our suggestion is to wear something comfortable for sitting in = it's no fun to be uncomfortable while you watch a show.
How early should I arrive?

It’s best to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before the performance starts, but if you are running a little late that's okay. The extra time gives you space to get to your seats and run to the bathroom, but even after a play starts, lots of theaters will "late-seat" people to get them into the performance. =
Are children allowed at the theater?

This depends on the show and the theater's policies. Check the play’s rating or age recommendation before purchasing tickets. Some performances are family-friendly, while others may not be suitable for young audiences.
Can I bring food or drinks into the theater?

Many theaters do not allow outside food or drinks, but some (like outdoor shows, or immersive shows) invite food and drinks! Additionally, many performance spaces have snacks and drinks to purchase. Checking the specific polices of a given theater will give you the best information.
What happens if I’m late?

It's good to aim to be on time, but we get it! Showing up late happens to everyone. Most theaters will late-seat audience members who arrive once the show starts (an usher will help you to your seat at a break in the action) but a few shows don't allow late seating because it might not work in the venue. Checking with the theater about the specific show you want to see will provide the most accurate information.
Is photography or recording allowed during the play?

Usually not - the fact that no recording is allowed is part of the magic of theater! Each performance only happens once, and the time you see it is the only time it will be just like that. (Also, phones can be distracting for other audience members and the actors.)