THEATRE MANNERS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 21922, 17 January 1946, Page 4

THEATRE MANNERS

Sir, —In recent months it has become noticeable that patrons of the local theatres have a tendency to enter after the show has commenced. These late arrivals would not be so bad if they entered quietly, but they have no regard for the other theatre-goers and, after taking their seats, enter into an animated discussion about bridge parties, etc. The worst offenders m this respect are those who consider themselves the "local society.” It is a pity that these people cannot finish their bridge and 5 o’clock cocktail parties in sufficient t«me to be in the theatre for the National Anthem. Is it not possible for the picture proprietors to adopt the opera style and hold all late comers in the vestibule until the first feature has been screened and then turn up the lights until all are seated. By holding late comers in this manner a few times these individuals would not continue to offend. The theatre is not the only place these society climbers make a nuisance of themselves, as the poor old shop assistant conies in for a taste of their bad manners, especially at 5.30 and 9 p.m. when, after idling their time away, they suddenly decide that they have shopping to do and expect full attention, even though the law requires the simp to be closed. THEATRE-GOER!.