I mentioned briefly in last week’s post the implicit contract between performers and audience.
I’d like to look at the idea in a little more detail.
Not all cultures have a separation between performer and audience. But whenever there is a distinction (like at a choral concert, for example), there is an implicit contract or set of expectations for both singers and audience members.
It’s implicit because it’s not usually written down or overtly stated. It's something that's learnt over time as a convention.
the audience are expected to …
- turn up on time
- stay in their seats (and not leave in the middle of the performance)
- focus on the performance (be quiet and attentive)
- keep noise to a minimum (no talking, mobile phones or noisy crisp packets)
- be courteous to other audience members
- not distract the singers
- show their appreciation (at the appropriate times)
the singers are expected to …
- be as professional as possible
- be of a suitable standard consistent with any ticket price
- be well-rehearsed and adequately prepared for the performance
- focus on their performance
- perform for the audience (and not each other)
- be disciplined (and quiet) between songs
Chris Rowbury
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