With the Alan Carr show hitting London’s Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre and other stand-ups such as Russel Brand touring the UK, booking tickets to a comedy show might be at the top of your to-do list. But how should you behave at such an event and what are the dos and don’ts for the perfect audience member? Let’s find out.
Do – Laugh at Appropriate Times
It’s perfectly acceptable to laugh out loud at a comedy show, especially when a punchline is delivered and everyone else is having a good old chuckle. You might even find it hard to stop laughing in some situations or continue laughing about a previous joke when a new one is being told. But try not to be disruptive. Laugh as quietly as you can during quieter moments and then let it all out when the audience gets loud again.
Don’t – Talk Throughout the Show
Comedy can be relatable. So giving a knowing nod to the person next to you or muttering something quietly is fine. But don’t talk loudly during the show, even if it’s related to a joke. Other people have paid money to see the comedian in action too and don’t want to hear you chatting away next to them. Comedy shows often have a laid back atmosphere, but that doesn’t mean you should take advantage.
Do – Make an Effort to Laugh and Have a Good Time
There might be a time when you attend a comedy show that’s not funny. This is unlikely to happen at a large venue with a well-known act performing. But if you head to a smaller gig, the comedian might be new, nervous or just not very good. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t be rude. Try to remain upbeat and smiley – after all, telling jokes to an audience is far from easy. Chuckle along politely when you’re meant to and don’t be rude about the act.
Don’t – Heckle
The best comedians are used to handling hecklers and can make the disturbance part of their show. They may even keep coming back to the heckler in a bid to take back control and show the person shouting out who’s boss. Heckling is not always welcome, however. It’s distracting for the comedian, annoying for the audience and can become plain rude. You wouldn’t shout out during a serious play or musical, so there’s no need to do it at a comedy show.
Do – Answer Questions
If you sit near the front of the stage, there’s a chance the comedian might look at you and ask a question. In this situation, answer it in an honest and light-hearted manner – then be quiet. The comedian might tease you or use your answer repeatedly throughout the show. This is all just part of the fun. So go along with it and try to have a good time, even if you’re a bit embarrassed.
If you’re going to a comedy show in Wembley Park and are looking for a great restaurant to enjoy a pre-theatre meal, visit us here at Studio Five. With a modern menu and a relaxed atmosphere, we’ll get your evening at the theatre off to a great start.
