Concert etiquette: The do’s and dont’s of seeing your fave band in a live performance

QUEZON City, Philippines (September 10) –  Imagine your in a concert, your favorite band performing live! You are jamming really hard with the music, waving your arms wildly, without a care. Generally, this is alright but you may not be aware that you are already ruining the concert experience of the other audience. Awkward, right? Here’s a helpful guide of proper concert etiquette so that you can keep yourself from getting kicked out! Lindsey Holder and USI Affinity have these to say:

• If you reserved tickets and you will get it at the venue, please spare the effort to have your ID out by the time you get to the concert ticket window so as to not inconvenience those following you in the line.
• Also, hang up the phone and put out your cigarette. The poor sap working in that smelly little ticket booth shouldn’t have to wait for you to finish up your conversation (or smoke) before helping you. They get paid to get you your tickets, so help them do their job more efficiently.

• If you’re tall, please don’t step in front of someone shorter than you. This one is controversial, I know, because it’d be weird to organize everyone in the room by height before the show starts. Still, the general rule is that if you were there first, you can stand where you want, because anyone who decides to stand behind you will have made the conscious choice to do so.

• It’s fine to dance at shows so long as you’re not invading other people’s space. I completely respect when people get into the music and want to move to the beat. However, if you are bumping into other people, particularly those who don’t feel the need to bust a move, they’re forced to move out of the way — sometimes sacrificing their perfect view of the stage — or risk getting their feet stomped on. I know you’re trying to have a good time, but nobody wants to limp to the parking lot at the end of the night because of a smashed toe. Oh, and if you plan on dancing, make sure you’re freshly showered. Even the greatest dance moves in the world won’t make up for your awful body odor.

• While we’re on the topic of getting into the music, we can’t ignore singing along. There are different perspectives on this, but all I can write is my own. If it’s a raucous show where everyone knows the words to all the songs and is singing along, join in, by all means. If it is a quiet song or set, singing quietly to yourself or just mouthing the words might be a better option. You’re not the one who’s famous, and I’m willing to bet that you can’t pull off the vocals the same way the person onstage can. You came to see the band, so let it do its job.

• When you arrive late and have to push through people to get to your seat, you’re disturbing someone else’s enjoyment of the show. Arriving early also gives you the opportunity to visit the restroom, get your refreshments for the night, and stop by the souvenir stand (none of which you will want to do after the show when crowds are craziest).

• If you want to dismay people quickly, stand on your seat or sit on someone’s shoulders. Both of these behaviors prevent people behind you from seeing the stage, and they’ll probably let you know that in no uncertain way.

• Obviously, nature can call at some pretty random times, but don’t leave your seat because you’re bored or just want to walk around. People are generally okay with moving out of your way for an entrance/exit once or twice, but any more than that and you’re pushing your luck.

• Don’t break the rules regarding smoking, drinking and drug use. Actually follow these rules even outside the concert venue. Any forbidden activity can not only upset those around you, it can get you tossed out or even arrested.

• Don’t talk loudly during the opening act. Some people may actually be there to see that band perform instead of the headliner, so be respectful and keep discussion to a minimum voice.

• Refrain from singing along. No, a great singing voice is not an excuse. If you’re singing along loudly to every song, there’s a tendency that somebody nearby who wants to throw something at you.

Following these simple and helpful tips will ensure that you and those around you have a great time! Enjoy the concert!

(written by Cleeve Carpio, edited by Jay Paul Carlos, additional research by Lovely Ann Cruz)