The glittering final bow, the roar of the crowd, and the feeling of a performance well executed. This is the magic that draws us to the stage. But for every minute of enchanting illusion presented to the audience, there are hours of precise, often chaotic, organization happening just feet away.
The backstage area is the engine room of the production, a highly specialized, high-stakes workplace where minutes matter, and small mistakes can derail the entire show. It’s here that the performer’s professionalism is truly tested, not by their talent, but by their conduct. To help every aspiring artist, this article explains the 5 rules of etiquette as a performer backstage.
To navigate this environment successfully and ensure a seamless show for everyone involved, including the cast, crew, and audience, every performer must adhere to a core code of conduct. This code is known as backstage etiquette, and it’s a framework for safety, efficiency, and mutual respect.
Mastering these unspoken rules is as crucial as mastering your role. Fail to observe proper etiquette, and you risk not only irritating your colleagues but also potentially compromising the integrity and safety of the production.
Be On Time (or Early) and Prepared
In live performance, your call time is a binding commitment, not a suggestion. Showing up late is the ultimate act of unprofessionalism, creating a domino effect that delays the entire team, from the stage manager to the makeup artists. To be professional is to be early.
Beyond punctuality, you must arrive prepared. This means lines are memorized, choreography is clean, and you’ve accounted for all your personal costume pieces. Your individual readiness is essential, ensuring no one wastes precious pre-show minutes chasing down an unprepared performer. Always build in extra time to calmly settle in and focus before your call.
Respect the Space and Other People’s Property
The backstage area is a highly organized, shared workspace where the cardinal rule is: Do not touch what isn’t yours. Every prop, set piece, and piece of equipment is placed precisely for safety and efficiency. Moving an item can cause a performer to miss a cue or even create a serious safety hazard.
In the shared dressing room, keep your personal items contained to your designated space to prevent clutter and trip risks. Crucially, always hang up your costumes immediately, and never eat or drink while wearing them. Respecting the property of the production and your colleagues ensures a smooth, professional, and safe show for everyone.
Be Quiet in the Wings and Backstage
Maintaining silence backstage is absolutely crucial, as noise travels easily and can distract both the audience and performers on stage. The wings are the absolute quiet zone and a high-traffic workspace, so never loiter there to watch the show; only enter when it’s time for your cue.
You must stay concealed from the audience’s view to preserve the theatrical illusion. Most importantly, remain silent to ensure you can hear your cues and avoid distracting the crew. Even in the green room or dressing room, keep conversation volume low and use downtime for quiet activities instead of distracting chatter.
Follow Crew Directions Immediately and Without Argument
The stage manager is your ultimate authority once the show begins. The technical crew handles all logistics and safety, so your job is to perform, not manage. You must give immediate compliance to any crew member’s instruction, as the reason is often tied to a critical, unseen technical or safety issue.
This is non-negotiable for smooth and safe operations. Never argue with the crew during a performance. If you have a concern, follow the directions first, then address it with the stage manager during a break. A simple, professional acknowledgment like “Got it” or “Thank you” is the only required verbal response.
Maintain Professionalism and Courtesy
Theatre is a highly collaborative art form, meaning your attitude affects the quality of the work and the morale of the entire company. Be courteous to every colleague, from the lead actor to the deck crew, recognizing them as professionals, not assistants.
Furthermore, uphold traditions like saying “break a leg” to show respect for the craft. Finally, limit visitors backstage, as this area is a restricted workplace, and unauthorized guests create chaos, compromise safety, and interrupt performance routines. Your conduct must reflect the highest level of respect for the show and everyone involved.
The Mark of a True Professional
Ultimately, backstage etiquette proves that being a professional performer is about much more than raw talent. It’s about being a reliable, respectful, and organized collaborator. By mastering the 5 rules of etiquette as a performer backstage, you ensure the safety, efficiency, and integrity of the entire production.
These practices build your reputation, making you a desirable colleague and a true asset in any theatrical company. The highest level of performance begins the moment you walk through the stage door. To build a career where these professional standards are second nature, formal training is key.
John Casablancas International provides industry-leading programs that instill the professionalism and essential industry etiquette needed for success. Take the next step toward a professional and respected career in the entertainment industry by contacting John Casablancas International today.