Etiquette School of Ohio

No Photography or Video Taping of a Live Performance – Theater Etiquette

Posted on January 14, 2010 by Sandy Hyde

Almost all live theaters restrict the use of photography and video taping of a performance. You will usually find this rule written in the program and/or announced before a performance begins.

Theaters are not making this request to make more profit by keeping the performance a secret from outsiders who do not pay for a ticket. They are respecting copyright laws. Laws that allow the creator of the performance to maintain control of their creative works and make a living with their creativity.

In addition to respecting copyright laws, the theaters are also protecting the performers from distractions that may cause serious injuries.

Can you imagine having a flash go off in your face while attempting to dance down a steep staircase in a blinding spotlight? What about being blinded by a flash and not being able to see the edge of a platform you’re dancing on? It would be tragic to miss the person who trusted you to catch them in a choreographed fall because you couldn’t see.

All of the above, and more, occurred during a show I just performed in. The violators who took the photos didn’t think it would cause any harm.

The next time you hear, “The taking of photos or videos during the performance is forbidden”, this includes you – for very good reasons.

Posted in Etiquette Tips, Theater Etiquette | 1 Comment

Theater Etiquette – Greeting Performers After the Show

Posted on January 12, 2010 by Sandy Hyde

Happy New Year!

I’m back at my desk after taking a 3 month hiatus to dance in the kick line of “Christmas Spectacular”. Even though I wasn’t writing or lecturing during this time period, I was gathering a substantial amount of material to share with you. Everyday during the 70 show run, I was amazed with an, “I can’t believe they did or said that”, situation. I will share many of the highlights with you during the next few weeks.

After every performance, the dancers and actors would gather in the theater lobby to “meet and greet” audience members as they exited the theater. I always enjoyed meeting the people I just performed for face-to-face. However, I was occasionally surprised at what people said or did at this time.

1. “You’re almost as good as the Rockettes at Radio City – almost.”

2. “Are you a boy dressed in female drag?” – said to one of the dancers.

3. “Are you a Christian? Because if you’re not, you shouldn’t be singing “O Holy Night”. – said to a male vocalist

4. “I didn’t like the way you said, “Ho ho ho”. I can do it better. I am a Santa too.” – said to Santa

5. “You were great singing with the group – I didn’t care for your solo performance though.” – said to a female vocalist

6. “Celine Dion sings it this way. Why don’t you?”– said to a male vocalist

7. “I’m a choreographer. I would have choreographed it differently.”

8. “You danced very well for a Japanese.” – said to a Japanese dancer.

9. “It’s only November 5. I can’t believe you’re performing a Christmas show so early. I’m not ready yet.”

10. “Are you 2 twins?” – said to a Caucasian dancer and an African-American dancer

11. “It’s so said what happened to Michael Jackson isn’t it?” – said to an African-American dancer

12. “I can’t believe how soft this fur is!” – said to me as a lady continued to rub her hand over the chest of my costume.

13. “Any of you single? I need a date for later on. Any one of you will do.” – keep looking buddy.

14. “Is this beard real?” – as they pulled on Santa’s beard.

15. “I’m so sick, but I don’t want to miss this opportunity to shake each of your hands.”

Sadly, the list of these comments goes on. Fortunately, the many wonderful comments over shadowed them.

Please don’t forget this basic rule: “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Also, please refrain from touching a performer’s costume before asking permission.

Posted in Etiquette Faux Pas, Etiquette Tips, Theater Etiquette | Leave a comment

Interview Questions – “Tell me about yourself?”

Posted on October 3, 2009 by Sandy Hyde

This interview question used to be my least favorite of all the possible interview questions out there. At first, it appears to vague. However, if you give it some thought, it is a wonderful opportunity to sell yourself. It doesn’t limit you to the questions the interviewer asks. You have the opportunity to toot your horn here.

Be very careful not to be too casual with this question. It’s not just chit chat to warm the interview process. Prepare your sales pitch in advance and deliver it here. Let the interviewer know why you would be a valuable addition to the company and a strong team player other people want to work with.

Posted in Etiquette Tips, Interview Skills | Tagged answering interview questions, business etiquette, career skills, how to answer interview questions, interview etiquette, interview questions, Interview Skills, job skills, tell me about yourself | Leave a comment

Never Kiss and Tell

Posted on October 2, 2009 by Sandy Hyde

As tempting as it may be to share the details of our relationships, it is most inappropriate to do so.

If a relationship, date, or one night stand was not a positive experience, do not embarrass the other person. You wouldn’t want them to say anything about you, would you?

If asked why you broke the relationship, keep it simple and say, “We didn’t click.”

On the flip side, if the relationship is going well and outsiders pry, tell them, “We’re very happy.”

No details necessary.

Posted in Bedroom Etiquette, Dating Etiquette, Etiquette Tips | Tagged Bedroom Etiquette, Couples Etiquette, dating, kiss and tell, relationships | Leave a comment

Dinner Is Ruined

Posted on October 1, 2009 by Sandy Hyde

It can happen very easily. You might read the recipe incorrectly, become distracted while cooking, or forget to set the timer to remind you to take something out of the oven. No matter how it happened, ruining a meal when you have guests waiting in the dining room for dinner can be devastating.

The first thing to remember in this situation is to remain composed. Your guests will take their cue from you. Evaluate what you have on hand. Can you turn the salad into a main entree? Is there time to make something else? If not, before you serve the appetizers or salad, call for carryout. Most oriental or Indian restaurants deliver. Don’t even mention the problem to your guests until the doorbell rings for the food delivery.

Your guests will laugh with you and be amazed at how well you handled the situation.

Posted in Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Tips | Tagged burned dinner, cooking for guests, Dining Etiquette, dinner guests, dinner parties, overdone meal, ruining dinner, serving dinner, serving food | Leave a comment

Business Presentations – Arrive Early

Posted on September 23, 2009 by Sandy Hyde

When giving a business presentation, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow yourself enough time to do a technical check and an overview of the presentation room.

Technical Checklist:

1. Do you have power?

2. Are there any electrical cords in your way?

3. Is your equipment functioning properly?

4. Is the room lighting properly adjusted or adjustable?

5. Microphone sound check

6. Is your visual program running properly?

7. Do you have a sufficient number of handouts?

8. Do you have extra batteries for backup?

Room Considerations:

1. Temperature – not too hot or too cold?

2. Sufficient number of chairs?

3. Is the furniture arranged so everyone can see you and your visuals?

4. Eliminate potential of outside noise if possible.

5. Close blinds or draperies if needed to optimize visual presentation.

Posted in Business Etiquette, Etiquette Tips, Professional Presentation | Tagged business presentations, presentation check list, presentation preparation, professional presentations | Leave a comment

Follow Up After a Networking Event

Posted on September 22, 2009 by Sandy Hyde

After meeting someone for the first time at a networking event, it is important to keep in touch with that person. Be creative in they way you contact them to be remembered and stand out in the crowd. Handwritten notes or postcards are always appreciated, but e-mails and phone calls work as well.

Continue your connection with this person by sending articles or information related to their interests.

Posted in Business Networking, Etiquette Tips | Tagged handwritten notes, networking etiquette, networking follow up | 1 Comment

Know Your Way Around A Boat or Cruise Ship

Posted on September 8, 2009 by Sandy Hyde

It is proper etiquette to know and understand the correct terminology when on a boat or cruise ship.

The left side of the boat is port, the right side is starboard.

Forward is said instead of front and aft is said instead of back.

Say you’re going below or topside rather than down or up.

Posted in Etiquette Tips, Grammar, Travel Etiquette | Tagged boating etiquette, boating terms, boating tips, cruise ship terminology | Leave a comment

Walk Gracefully Down the Aisle – Wedding Etiquette

Posted on September 5, 2009 by Sandy Hyde

When taking your walk down the aisle, you want it to look as graceful as possible.

Walk slowly, smile, and don’t look at the floor – even if you’re crying.

Select processional music with a strong, audible cadence.

The hesitation step we think of when we envision a bride coming down the aisle is outdated and looks very unnatural. Keep your walk slow and rhythmic with the music.

Posted in Etiquette Tips, Wedding Etiquette | Tagged bride, processional music, walking down the aisle, Wedding Etiquette | Leave a comment

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