Hi! I've been lurking for months. I really like everyone's insights. I could not agree more about how audiences behave anymore. I haven't been to the theatre in many years and it was getting bad back then.
I come from a theatrical family (my aunt is currently in the ensemble of "She Loves Me" and her husband is the percussionist for "Fiddler On The a Roof." I was taught to keep my mouth shut once the curtain goes up. If a fuss was made, we left the venue and it was burned into my brain not to ruin the event for others. I think cellphones should be checked with coats. I have other opinions also, I'll write my dissertation later... LOL