On the premiere night of the stage rendition of “Paranormal Activity” in Toronto this June, an individual in the audience expressed disapproval by booing the lead actor during his performance. The booing was not directed at the actor’s performance but rather the character’s decisions on stage. Fellow audience members quickly hushed the disruptor, and many took to online platforms later to express their indignation and mourn the decline of theater etiquette.
One Reddit user commented, “Whoever booed after such an incredible monologue needs to be shadow-banned for real. Like, this isn’t a panto,” in reference to lively pantomime comedies known for their animated audiences. Complaints also surfaced regarding various audience behaviors at the Mirvish production, including nervous chatter and laughter following each suspenseful moment in the horror-themed show based on the movie franchise.
Patrick Heusinger, the lead actor who has been part of “Paranormal Activity” since its 2025 debut, remains unperturbed by audience conduct. He acknowledges that their production draws a crowd unfamiliar with traditional theater norms. Heusinger shared with CBC News that they often witness audience members treating the theater like their living room, munching on popcorn and unwrapping candy during tense scenes. He views such disruptions as part of engaging with the art, encouraging viewers to immerse themselves in the experience.
Mirvish Productions recently introduced its first “chilled performance” of “& Juliet,” a jukebox musical offering a contemporary twist on a Shakespearean classic. These performances maintain the show’s content but create a more relaxed atmosphere where patrons can freely move around, make noise, and enjoy the production without strict etiquette constraints. The initiative aims to cater to a diverse audience, including individuals with neurodivergent traits and those seeking a more inclusive and comfortable theater experience.
Amidst evolving audience preferences, Cineplex adapts by accommodating behaviors like cellphone use during screenings. Sara Moore, the chief marketing officer, acknowledges the changing landscape and emphasizes providing audiences with the experiences they desire, even if it means allowing noise and cellphone usage during shows. Moore highlighted instances of lively sing-alongs and diverse programming, aligning with audience expectations while maintaining communication about the viewing experience.
Toronto theater critic Ryan Borochovitz sheds light on the historical evolution of theater etiquette, noting its origins in the 19th century and its impact on modern expectations. He emphasizes the need for theaters to set clear guidelines and manage audience expectations to ensure an enjoyable experience for all attendees. Borochovitz suggests practical changes, such as dimming house lights instead of turning them off completely, to reduce distractions and enhance the overall theater experience.
