News from the Wildcat Lair: We're all in this together
<p class="p1">It’s that time of year again. The time of year when our high school auditorium is buzzing and busy every night in preparation for this year’s spring musical. </p><p class="p3">The singing, dancing, rehearsing, building, painting…a whole lot of hard work with some fun mixed in. The anticipation is running high; in less than a month the show will go on.</p><p class="p3">As opportunities to attend live theater diminish I have noticed a lack of understanding by some as to what is considered correct behavior in this social situation. </p><p class="p3">Let me take this occasion to review theater etiquette along with some handy tips.</p><p class="p3">If tickets are available for early purchase you can avoid the lines at the gate by getting your tickets ahead of time. Purchasing tickets early may insure a better choice of seating.</p><p class="p3">Consider the show you will be viewing when making a decision to bring small children. Will the performance be too lengthy for them or will the content fail to hold their attention?</p><p class="p3">Dress appropriately. Many people dress up for the theater and consider it a special night.</p><p class="p3">Arrive early, use the restroom, and be seated 10 minutes before the performance begins. Try your best to remain seated throughout the performance.</p><p class="p3">Turn off all electronics: phones, pagers, iPads and anything with a light or sound. Save the camera for intermission, after the show or during any special awards. </p><p class="p3">Do not climb over the backs of seats. (I know this seems like a no-brainer; however, I actually witnessed this happening at last year’s performance.)I should also add that you should not put your feet on the seats in front of you.</p><p class="p3">It is polite to keep quiet during the performance. Please do not speak; remove crying babies and upset children so that the other audience members can enjoy the show.</p><p class="p3">Applaud after songs when appropriate, laugh at funny things and show your respect and appreciation for the hard-working performers on the stage. </p><p class="p3">If you enjoyed the show feel free to stand at the conclusion of a performance or curtain call. Instead of shouting a name or whistling try “Bravo” or “Brava” to voice your approval. </p><p class="p3">It is rather rude to run out during the curtain call. It also could be hazardous since the house lights are still off at that time. </p><p class="p3">Saturday night is traditionally senior night. This is also the time we give special recognition to those who have worked so diligently to pull the show together. If you are uninterested in this tribute please arrange your schedule to see the performance at another time.</p><p class="p3">I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our supporters. Because of you who give so freely not only monetarily but of your time and energy, theater can still flourish in Southern Illinois. I appreciate so many who have done so much for our students and school. </p><p class="p3">“High School Musical” tickets go on sale March 9 in the superintendent’s office. </p><p class="p3">The performances are Friday, March 20, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 21, at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 22, at 2 p.m. I can’t wait to see you there.</p><p class="p4"> </p>