Audience Guidelines

The James Theater welcomes all audience members and is committed to creating a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment where all participants feel comfortable to engage with the art presented in our space. The following guidelines have been established by The James Theater and are to be respected by all event participants to ensure all artists and patrons have an enjoyable experience.

Know the rules. Please read our policies prior to attending an event, pay attention to any pre event emails, look at event details on the specific event page, and read over any signage placed around the building. Occasionally events require unique restrictions, and will be enforced alongside The James Theater policies.

Arrive on time. Late seating is distracting to artists (especially openers!) and audience members. If you arrive late you may be asked to wait in the lobby until an appropriate break in the show to find your seat.

Silence all cell phones, pagers, watches, and other devices. The light and sound emitting from your device is distracting to the people around you.

Flash Photography and Audio Recording are not permitted. The James Theater’s house policy on photography and recording prohibits flash photography and audio recording. Occasionally individual events will have unique photography and recording restrictions. If the normal house policy on photography and recording are ever not in place, or if special restrictions are present, that will be made abundantly clear.

Be respectful of working personnel. Artists, venue staff, and touring staff are all working diligently to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event. Any interruption or interference is not permitted.

Keep all personal items at or under your seat. Any items on the floor are a potential tripping hazard and a violation of fire code.

Do not bring prohibited items. Prohibited items include: All forms of smoking and / or tobacco products, Large backpacks, Luggage, Outside food or drink, Glass, Professional recording equipment of any kind, Weapons (or any item deemed as a weapon), Oversized items, Noisemakers, Selfie-sticks, Tablets, Pets (this does not apply to service animals).

Pay close attention to your volume. Our venue is intended for the enjoyment of music. If you can hear yourself over the performer, please reconsider your volume.

Stay mindful of personal space. A standing event or a lot of crowd movement is not an excuse to violate others personal boundaries. Please be cognizant of the people around you.

Be where you are supposed to be. Do not attempt to enter restricted areas or cross the stage barrier. If spaces outside of the theater area and the lobby are available for audience access, that will be made abundantly clear. All of our bathrooms are gender neutral and up to the discretion of each individual to choose the best option for them. No persons present at The James Theater should feel compelled to deny or question your personal choice.

Drink Responsibly. The James Theater staff reserves the right to deny entrance or remove intoxicated, impaired, or underage guests in a prompt and safe manner.

Have fun. Audience members are encouraged to sing, dance, and enjoy themselves when event appropriate. Take note of the vibe in the room and avoid inappropriate or distracting behavior. Please refrain from becoming an unsolicited performer at any event.

Please note: Any audience members who violate the above audience guidelines will be subject to removal from the venue without a refund.