On the premiere night of the Paranormal Activity live show in Toronto this June, an audience member expressed disapproval towards the main actor during his performance. The individual seemed displeased not with the actor’s talent but with the character’s choices on stage.
Fellow attendees quickly hushed the disruptor, and many later took to online platforms to express their indignation, lamenting the decline of theater decorum. One Reddit user emphasized the need to silence those who disrupt powerful monologues, highlighting the importance of respecting theatrical performances.
Some spectators also criticized the behavior of the audience at the Mirvish production, citing nervous chatter and laughter following the show’s suspenseful moments, inspired by the popular horror movie franchise.
Patrick Heusinger, the lead actor in Paranormal Activity since its 2025 debut, remains unperturbed by audience conduct. He acknowledges that the production attracts theater newcomers who may not be familiar with traditional etiquette, welcoming their relaxed demeanor during performances.
Heusinger views audience reactions, including the occasional booing, as a natural part of art appreciation, encouraging viewers to engage emotionally with the production. Embracing diverse responses, he reassures that the cast can handle any interaction during the show.
Mirvish Productions has introduced a “chilled performance” concept for & Juliet, offering a unique experience for audiences. This relaxed setting allows attendees to enjoy the show with lowered house lights, the freedom to move around, and permission to make noise, creating a more inclusive environment for various audience members, including those with special needs.
Cineplex acknowledges the changing preferences of audiences, recognizing the prevalence of cellphones in theaters. Chief Marketing Officer Sara Moore emphasizes the importance of catering to evolving viewer expectations, even if it involves occasional disruptions like singing along loudly or using mobile devices during screenings.
The evolution of theater etiquette, as highlighted by Toronto theater critic Ryan Borochovitz, reflects historical and contemporary societal norms. Borochovitz advocates for theaters to adapt by establishing clear guidelines, such as maintaining dimmed house lights to reduce distractions and managing audience expectations regarding permissible behaviors during performances.
