jen

CONCERT ETIQUETTE 101

So while searching through a few outdated word documents on Uncle Russell (the nickname for my macbook pro) I found an old blog post that I never actually posted. Although it was written over a year and a half ago, the information is still relevant. So here it is:

“Last week I went to the Ivory Club to watch a live show, and I realized, I didn’t know what to wear! I’ve heard this place is classy; however, I was going there to watch a hip-hop group, who drops the occasional swear word and raps about Michelle Obama. I decided to take my chances with jeans and a dressier top; however, it was at that point that I realized the way one acts and present themself at a concert is a lot more important than I thought. That’s when I decided to compile a list of what is appropriate and not appropriate for different types of concerts. Let’s call it: Concert Etiquette 101

A SIT DOWN SHOW:

This is classified as a show with pre-arranged seating. Rule number one when it comes to attending a show such as this: sit in the seat that matches your ticket! If your seat is in the second level, row 13, seat 40, make sure you are sitting in the second level, in row 13, in seat 40. There is nothing more annoying than getting ready to enjoy some good live music, and finding the spot you paid for is taken by someone who is trying to sneak further to the front.

Now different rules apply for different venues. If the place is large, such as Rexall Place, then standing up in your seat and screaming/singing loudly is allowed. You may be disliked by some of the people around you, but the venue is large enough that basically everyone is doing it. So sing your heart out, kid!

If the venue is smaller and more personal, such as the Jubilee Auditorium or the Myer Horowitz Theatre, the same rules do not always apply. So before standing and singing, proceed with caution. If you are the blubbering idiot who is yelling, “MARRY ME!” or, “HAVE MY BABIES!” you will be disliked by not only the people in front of you, but by everyone in the room, the security guards, and the band on stage. Try to keep your pre-teen screams to yourself and enjoy the music.

A STANDING SHOW:

A general admission show, or a standing room show, has a whole new set of guidelines. If the concert is a low-key show (casual conversations in the crowd, mutual head bobbing, the occasional lighter in the air) then you want to stay low-key. There is nothing worse than being the only rowdy character in a group of mellow people. On the floor, there will be no pushing or shoving permitted to get closer to the stage. Proper dress attire is tight jeans and plaid shirts for boys and skirts with baggy cardigans and tennis shoes for the ladies.

Now mosh pits are in a whole new league. Before you buy a ticket to this kind of show, make sure you know what you’re signing up for. These kinds of shows usually involve screaming music, offensive language, and a crowd that is filled with rage for no reason. I would not suggest bringing a bag or purse, and leave any valuables at home that you will not need. You never know when you are going to be crowd-surfing, stage diving, or getting into a fight in the middle of the pit. There is no courtesy for anyone’s space in this situation, so be prepared to be squashed like a sardine, and to be shoved aside by the rabid hardcore fans who are savagely finding their way to the front. To conclude, there are no rules for mosh pits. Just try not to get into too many fights.

^ the unfortunate aftermath of 16 year old Jen in a mosh pit

AN OUTSIDE SHOW:

An outside show is not always, but usually a festival or tour that consists of many bands in one location. They are often held in the summertime, or a warmer season. In this case, brining things from home is encouraged. Make sure you have a tarp, lawn chairs, or blankets of your own. Possibly pack a cooler with refreshments for the day, and don’t forget to layer up.

Keep in mind there can be exceptions to these rules based on what band is playing and at what venue. Now next time you go to a concert, remember your concert etiquette and enjoy the show in style.”