Dress code for theater

[Graeme]

I've found that the more established a show is, (or the easier it is to get last minute tickets), the less people feel inclined to dress up.

I went to see Mary Poppins in its first month and nobody was in jeans or trainers, only smart clothes. But watching Les Mis recently there were quite a few people who'd obviously been out all day, as they were wearing jeans, raincoats and were loaded down with shopping.

I can honestly say it made no difference to me what they were wearing but the audience who'd made an effort to look good seemed to be more aware of where they were and didn't talk or disturb other people. There was more of a 'take it or leave it' attitude from the second group.

 

[hildasmuriel]

Gosh - I must go around with my eyes half closed - apart from noticing that nobody had bow ties or long frocks on, I really don't notice much about what anyone is wearing (well, apart from the nuns obviously). As for whether they are wearing trainers or formal shoes - no way could I tell you.
Bit puzzled about the remark about shoppers as well. Can't imagine anyone going to the matinee at the London Palladium and NOT doing some shopping on the way - it is off Oxford St after all, and we're only human. Didn't make any of us chatter or disrespect the show. Maybe it's because we booked the tickets 8 months ago.
Chap behind me who thought he could sing "Climb Every Mountain" and "16 going on 17" was a bit of a pain - but I still couldn't tell you what he was wearing!