Returning to the Arts: Sharing the Experience with Care
- Cultural Arts Society of West Jordan
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
The start of a new season brings with it the magic of live performance—the thrill of music, the joy of storytelling, and the sense of community that comes from gathering together.
This year, we also want to take a moment to reflect on what it means to be an audience member. Live theater is a partnership between those on stage and those in the seats. The experience is richer, warmer, and more meaningful when we all share the same spirit of respect and care.
A Word from Karen Spencer
Theater consultant Karen Spencer has written heartfelt letters to our community about the beauty of live theater and the importance of audience etiquette. She reminds us:
“Theater is such a beautiful thing that can fill our hearts with joy and fulfillment, but we need to be able to hear and see what was worked so hard on for that joy to be translated to the audience.”
Karen has traveled across the country and noticed that these concerns are not unique to Utah:
“For some time now, I have had a growing concern regarding theater etiquette and have been engaging in countless conversations with people with similar concerns for its deterioration. This is not a problem I've experienced only in Utah, but in my travels all over the country.”
She points out that etiquette is about more than cell phones. It includes simple, considerate actions—like saving conversations for intermission, opening wrappers during applause, and remembering that even small disruptions can affect others’ ability to enjoy the performance.
An Understanding Approach
Karen speaks with compassion about why these challenges might be happening:
“Perhaps part of it stems from manners in society in general deteriorating… Perhaps the overall casualness in not dressing up for the theater anymore has contributed. Perhaps the covid period added to it when people got used to watching shows in their living rooms and talking out as desired.”
Her words aren’t about scolding, but about reminding us that theater is a special space—one that deserves our attention and care.
As she explains:
“Those acting inappropriately may be having fun, but these behaviors substantially hurt the enjoyment of the show for the majority of others.”
That’s why small acts of mindfulness—like arriving a few minutes early, settling in before the curtain rises, and keeping reactions for after the show—go a long way toward making the performance more meaningful for everyone.
Why It Matters
Karen’s reminder is ultimately a call to preserve the joy of live performance for all:
“No one wants a police state in the theater, of course, but [audience members] are literally BEGGING for an atmosphere that is more considerate of ALL members of the audience.”
It’s about lifting each other up—honoring the hard work of the performers, respecting fellow patrons, and creating a space where the arts can thrive.
Upcoming Events and Performances
We’re thrilled to welcome you back for another season filled with theater, concerts, and community events. Here are just a few highlights:
Utah Reader's Fest, October 11
The Hasty Heart — Sugar Factory Playhouse, October 16-25
Heroes & Villains — West Jordan Symphony’s Fall Concert, November 1
It’s a Wonderful Life — Sugar Factory Playhouse, December 4–13
The 31st Annual Handel's Messiah Community Sing-along, December 14
Art in the Park returning next spring
(And many more—keep an eye on our website and newsletter for updates!)
A Shared Experience
Theater is a living, breathing art form—one that depends on the connection between cast and audience. This season, let’s enter every performance with gratitude, kindness, and joy.
As Karen says:
“The first commitment should be to creating an atmosphere that will allow the audience to hear those on the stage.”
Together, we can make every performance and event a memorable one.
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