Making the most of your Test Drive Performance
This guide contains information that applies to all types of performance. If you are thinking of attending the ballet, opera, classical and chamber music for the first time, you may wish to read the additional guides that are specific to those art forms.
Before the show
Visit the Test Drive organisation website. You will find information about the venue, the show you are seeing and the performers. It is a good investment in time to take a few minutes to read a show synopsis, find out what facilities the venue offers and check out your transport options. There are Google maps attached to each venue so you can work out the best way to get there. Most venues are well served by public transport and many offer on-site parking.
Arrive 30 minutes before curtain up
This means you won't be rushed and have time to enjoy pre-show refreshment and get your bearings. Late comers are not admitted to the theatre once the show has started until there is a natural break in the performance. This is so late-comers do not disturb the performers or other audience members.
During the Performance
Once you have taken your seats, it is customary to stay there until interval. So make sure you are comfortable and have everything you need before the start of the show. If you do need to leave your seat, you will not be readmitted until there is a suitable break in the performance.
Unlike the movies, the performers on the stage are affected by the audience. So it probably goes without saying that the audience should refrain from talking or being a distraction during the show.
Mobile Phones
One of the most unwelcome sounds in the theatre is a mobile phone, beeper or pager. Please make sure yours is turned off.
Food & Drink
Theatres do not allow food and drink in the performance areas - people munching on their snacks can be distracting for the performers. However, most venues offer food and drinks which can be enjoyed pre-and post show as well as during the interval.
When to applaud
There are no hard and fast rules about when to applaud as each show is different. It's important to remember that performers love to hear the sounds of clapping and appreciation for their work.
At opera, ballet and orchestral performances, it is customary to applaud as the conductor takes his/her stand in the pit at the start of the performance and after the interval.
You can also applaud at the end of a solo performance.
A good tip is to watch out for the conductor. Conductors hold still until the end of a piece and then relax by putting their arms down and facing the audience. This is your cue!
When attending a play, applaud at the end of each act.
If in doubt, follow the lead of your fellow audience members.
What to wear
The days of having to dress up to go to the theatre are long gone. You'll see people wearing all manner of attire - jeans and t-shirts, suits, posh frocks and every thing in-between.
If you'd like to dress up and make a night of it - please do so, it is all part of the fun. If you're not sure, 'smart casual' is the safe option.
Tip: Some theatres pump up the air-conditioning to counter the heat from the stage lights. Even in warm weather take a jacket or wrap.
Photographs and Videos
Because it is distracting for the performers, taking photographs or videos during a performance is not permitted. It is also not permitted to take photographs of the stage or set unless you have permission.
Interval
During the interval you can get a drink, a snack, use the restrooms or stretch your legs. Intervals are usually around 20 minutes. A bell will ring when it is time to return to your seat.