Backstage Visit Etiquette

[Precious3]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 3:44pm

On the list to pop backstage to visit a friend starring in a show, what's the appropriate etiquette? Do I bring flowers? Is that only for Opening Night? What if it's later in the run? or in previews? Just curious if anyone has any advice here...

[luvtheEmcee]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 3:55pm

There's no rule for or against bringing flowers. If you feel like doing it and you know the person well enough that it won't be overkill then go for it. If you think it's more appropriate to just bring yourself, that's fine too! I brought a friend a six-pack once. Do what you want to do!

[Bettyboy72]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 3:58pm

It's your friend. What would they like/expect? Why are you asking strangers?

[Precious3]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 4:14pm

Just wanted to poll those w/ more B'way experience than myself. Thanks!

[Bettyboy72]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 4:19pm

I think it depends on the level of closeness to the friend. If you have been friends so long that it is very casual, then just bring yourself and socialize or go for a drink after. If it is a more of an acquaintance, you may wish to bring a token of esteem.

[Bubba2]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 4:46pm

It's a fine question to ask. As you are new here, you'll find nice as well as not so nice answers to questions, thoughts, etc. Welcome to the message board. Back stage is not a magical place but a work space. Just try to stay out of traffic areas where folks are coming and going and you'll be fine. If your friend likes flowers then bring em. Those are a few of my thoughts on the matter. Have fun.

[IronMan]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 5:09pm

Unless it's one of the newer theaters, it's going to be much smaller than you think. Watch your head when going down stairs! Bring whatever your friend will like (remember most dressing rooms are tiny, so overly fragrant flowers can be annoying- and you don't know whom they may share a room with).

In general: Stay out of people's way, don't touch anything (you'd be surprised how many people will just pick up props/costumes without asking- don't do it, no matter how tempting), don't take photos of anyone without asking, and most of all, don't overstay your welcome. But have fun!

[SNAFU]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 6:47pm

Fart loudly and comment on the aroma!

[Patti LuPone FANatic]

Posted: 3/12/13 at 6:53pm

I'm sure a nice simple gift would be appreciated. Also, another poster mentioned not to dawdle too much. That makes sense. Enjoy! from RC in Austin, Texas P.S. Gosh, I just realized it's almost 7 years to the date since that picture was taken.

[RaisedOnMusicals]

Posted: 3/13/13 at 10:44am

On most occasions, going backstage does not really mean going into dressing rooms, etc. There is often a small waiting area where people congregate while waiting for the actors to change. Sometimes it's at the bottom of a flight of stairs that lead to the dressing areas.

[yankeefan7]

Posted: 3/13/13 at 10:59am

The only time I was backstage was to visit a friend of my wife's from HS (Robert Cuccioli)along with another old HS friend. Actually, we did not stay long. He was very sweet and introduced us quickly to Linda Eder and Christianna Noll and then we headed out to dinner. I told my wife before we got into restaurant I would pick up the tab for dinner and she agreed that would be real nice. Like others have said, do whatever you feel comfortable with depending on your relationship with your friend. IMO - if it is a female friend I think flowers would be a nice thought.

Updated On: 3/13/13 at 10:59 AM