Let’s Talk About Fidgeting at the Theatre

by Rachel Wagner, Guest Editorial

One of the differences between theater and film is the value of a live and involved audience in the experience. Whether it's a laugh or a cry of shock, the fresh response of the crowd watching a performance can be exhilarating and lead to memorable events. However, being a member of an audience can provide a lot of challenges, as we all have our own idiosyncrasies, tastes, and weaknesses.

One of mine that I struggle with is being a big-time fidgeter. While I know this can be annoying to others (especially those with the opposite problem of being easily distracted), I wish we could all be a little more patient and enjoy being part of a diverse audience, even if it isn’t perfect. 

Fidgeting is a condition where a person struggles to stay still and moves around in a restless way. Often, they will shake their legs or rattle something they are holding. I have been known to tear up a piece of paper in my hand (I guess that’s one benefit of digital programs!) without even realizing I’m doing it. Some people view a fidgeter as being disengaged from what they are watching or even being rude, but that often isn’t the case. If anything, they may be trying to focus even more than their non-fidgeting friends and family, but being judged in the opposite way. 

Obviously, fidgeting is the most problematic with children who have less control over their bodies and instincts, but even as an adult, it still can be really hard to keep in check. One study I read said that 10% of adults fidget on a regular basis, and most experience it from time to time. This is where theatre comes into play. Do we really want to eliminate such a large population of people from the experience of live theatre? I think I can add something to my local community theater even if I may have challenges as an audience member.

Now that’s not to say we shouldn’t try our best not to be distracting, but when people treat the theater like a library where nobody can open a candy wrapper or move a muscle, it makes me wonder if it’s a welcoming environment for me and others like me. I have a small metal fidget spinner which I can carry in the palm of my hand and spin practically unseen if I’m having a struggle. This seems like a good compromise, but I have had people get upset with me about it in the past.

Do these people understand they are participating in a group experience? I get audience members this day can be uncouth and rude which puts everyone on edge but even with those people I believe a patient attitude is probably what will give a better overall theatre experience. The fact is not everyone in a group setting will behave exactly the way we might want them to, and that’s okay. At the end of the day, the group reaction to a live performance is worth whatever we have to put up with. In addition, listening despite distraction is a learned skill that takes practice (just as overcoming fidgeting does as well.) It gets easier the more we try and keep our focus despite what might be happening with others. 

Sometimes I am envious of my music-interested friends because the general attitude at concerts is so much more carefree and casual. We in the world of live theatre can be a little stuffy on occasion, and as a fidgeter, it can be discouraging. So maybe the next time you see someone who’s leg is bouncing up and down or they are fiddling with their pen, tearing their program up, whatever it might be give them a smile and be grateful they are making the effort to attend live theatre.

If it’s a major distraction, talk to them nicely at intermission. In my experience they are well aware of the problem and will do their best to fix it or improve. Theatre should be an inclusive place of gathering and that includes all types of audience members. Fidgeters or not!