by Rosa Lee

Created on: April 02, 2011   Last Updated: April 05, 2011

Backstage etiquette is the way you are expected to behave.  A successful production requires professionalism from all cast and crew members.  Besides being punctual, courteous and appropriately dressed, there are several backstage rules of behaviour for rehearsals and performances.

The most obvious expectation is that you behave in a professional manner.  This means no horse-play, taking direction well, treating others in the same friendly manner you would like to be treated and being where you are supposed to be.  Generally, “where you are supposed to be” is in the green room, unless you’ve been called to the wings in preparation for your entrance.

Be ready for entrances by arriving in the wings a few minutes before your turn to be on stage.  While waiting, concentrate on your character.  Think specific thoughts for the character, mood and situation so you are ready for your entrance.

It is vital that actors remain quiet when backstage, even during rehearsals.  Talking can carry to the orchestra pit and audience.  Even whispering can distract the crew, technicians, or musicians and knock other actors out of character.  If you absolutely must communicate with someone, either take them into the green room, or wait until the other person can give you their attention and whisper in their ear.

Never prompt someone who has forgotten something.  Prompting is telling someone what their line is or when it is their turn to act.  This is the job of the director or stage manager during rehearsals.  During performances, it is up to the other actors on stage to assist the person by feeding them suggestive lines to help them get back on track.

Treat technicians, musicians and crew members with respect.  Without them, the show would not run.  Actors would be in the dark.  There would be no music.  Props would be misplaced or in shambles during performances.  Stay to one side and allow them to move freely backstage.  Make sure you do not leave your script, props or personal items where others can trip over them.

Never touch or move the curtains, lights, cables, scenery or anything on or around the stage.  This includes props and costumes unless you are personally responsible for them and it is time to use them.  Show care for costumes, make-up and props by using them correctly and returning them to their assigned locations after use.

Although it is always tempting, do not look through the curtains or doors at the audience or try to see on stage.  If you can see the audience, they can see you as well.  This looks very unprofessional and breaks the air of reality created for the performance.

By following these common sense rules of etiquette, an actor can bring an atmosphere of professionalism to any production, earning a good reputation and setting a great example to others.

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