Avoid causing a distraction or missing part of the performance: show up on time.

For theater lovers and Broadway fans, there's nothing like seeing actors and actresses ply their craft in person, where each moment brings the chance for some new bit of brilliance. But along with the joys and thrills of the live stage come certain rules of conduct designed to make sure that each audience member can enjoy the performance without annoyance or distraction. By following a few simple guidelines of etiquette, you can make sure that your next trip to the theater is enjoyable for you and all those around you.

As President of the League of American Theaters and Producers, Jed Bernstein has helped create such initiatives as Kids Night on Broadway, the Broadway Line, the Broadway/NBA partnership, and the National Broadway Theater Awards. Here he lists what he considers the most important rules of theater etiquette:

• Show up on time. According to Bernstein, New York theater curtains rise promptly at 8 p.m., and if you're not in your seat by then, you may be out of luck—at least for the first act. If an emergency forces you to arrive late, the ushers will do their best to find a spot for you in the back until they can take you to your assigned seats for the second act.

• Be courteous and respectful. Although it seems obvious to most people, Bernstein thinks that it bears repeating that attending a play is not the same as watching television in your own home. Theater owners, actors, and your fellow audience members expect you to be quiet, courteous and kind—and always respectful of the fact that nothing should distract from the production on the stage. Talking is appropriate during intermission only. Whispering, crinkling candy wrappers, moving to the music, and neglecting to take off a tall hat are also sure ways to earn the ire of others in the audience.

• Don't bring young children. Most Broadway shows are not staged with children in mind; and in many cases, young children are expressly forbidden from attending. This is not typically because of content, but because very young children can have difficulty sitting still and keeping quiet through the performance. Infants are always a no-no in the theater, as there's no distraction quite like a crying baby. Many cities, including New York, have special theater events for children; these are a better option for parents who can't leave the kids at home.

• No cell phones. Amazingly, some people still show up to a play with their cell phones and pagers turned on. A ringing cell phone is not only a serious annoyance, but it can break the audience and the actors out of the carefully created "reality" of the play and turn everyone's attention to the person with the phone. Follow the instructions that are now standard at the start of plays, and shut those phones off. Better yet, leave them back at the hotel.

• Dress up- if you want to. Most Broadway theaters do not have official dress codes, and you can dress as comfortably and casually as you wish—within reason. Many theater goers, however, consider it part of the experience to put on a nice suit or dress. You don't have to dress like you're in a wedding party, but making a special effort to look nice can be part of the fun. If that's not your style, then wear your jeans; there will be others in the audience who've done the same.

For more information on theater etiquette or Broadway theater, check out the following organizations and websites:

Theater Etiquette for the Audience
www.geocities.com/Broadway/7966/etiquette3.html

Advice with Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee: 10 Theater Etiquette Tips
www.drdaveanddee.com/theater.html

Live Broadway.com
The Official Website of Broadway
www.livebroadway.com

Broadway.com
www.broadway.com

Playbill Online
www.playbill.com