In
this digital electronic age it is easy to lose the human connection
in our busy lives, but that's the beauty of the performing
arts, they provide the opportunity for connection and expression.
Whether attending a professional, amateur or student performance,
one thing is the same for all - the energy exchange between
performers and audience.
The
performers have worked long and hard to present their material
well. They have invested time learning their craft to arrive
at their present level of accomplishment. They have done hundreds
of dance steps, musical scales or theatrical improvisations.
They have worked through months of rehearsals and have great
expectations for the performance. They understand the unspoken
responsibility that they have to their audience.
To
make the connection between performers and audience complete,
there are a few things that must happen. The first step is
addressing some common misconceptions of potential audience
members which must be corrected.
Misconception:
Dance, music and theater performances are "high brow" events
for the social elite.
False.
These types of performances are for everyone to enjoy and
usually contain elements that are somewhat familiar as well
as new things to experience.
Misconception:
Performances require fancy clothes to attend.
False.
Although some people enjoy dressing up to attend a performance;
neat, clean attire is all that is needed.
Misconception:
Performances are expensive.
False.
The value in the price of regional performances is a bargain
and is often less than the cost of attending a movie. At a
concert, you will see amazing regional talent performing work
that was choreographed or composed or written by world-class
professionals as well as outstanding work by regional artists.
Misconception:
It's hard to know when to applaud.
Applause
is the method of an audience to show appreciation for the
performance. It is usually, but not always, given at the end
of a dance or music piece or during a scene in theater. If
you are unsure, you may follow the lead of the rest of the
audience.
