I love attending the ballet, and it’s become a cherished tradition to go at least once a year with my mom and sister. Although I never dreamed of becoming a ballerina, I’ve always found watching ballet fascinating. In Cape Town, ballet is becoming more popular shows are now often sold out. Here are some tips for those who are new to attending the ballet.

 Remember your tickets

Don’t forget to bring your tickets; without them, you won’t be allowed in. Keep them handy and secure. You can usually keep a digital copy on your phone.

What to Wear

In Cape Town, smart casual attire is typical for the ballet. You’ll see a range of outfits from jeans and t-shirts to more elegant dresses. During special events, like Christmas shows, people tend to dress up more. I usually opt for a cocktail dress and heels, but jeans are also acceptable if that’s your choice.

You should also take note of where you are going to see the show. My Russian friend Anastasia told me that in Russia women dress up to attend the ballet. When we watched Romeo and Juliette in Germany some people were dressed up but, others wore casual clothes. To get an idea of what others wear, check the ballet company’s website for photos of previous performances.

Arrive Early

Arrive on time to avoid missing the first act. Latecomers are not allowed inside to avoid disturbing the performance and the audience.

Ask the ushers

Ushers are available to guide you to your seat and assist with any questions you may have. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help—they’re there to ensure you have a great experience.

Use the Washroom Before the Show

Use the restroom before the show and during intermission. Avoid drinking too much liquid beforehand to minimize disruptions.

Be Quiet

Maintain silence once the ballet begins. Applause is encouraged, but conversations are not. Stay quiet and enjoy the performance.

No Eating Inside

Food and drinks are typically available in the lobby, but you cannot bring them into the theatre.

Consider Purchasing the Program

Programs provide useful information about the dancers, the show’s background, and the storyline. Although I usually skip buying them to avoid excess paper waste, they can be a nice keepsake.

Research Beforehand

Instead of buying a program, I prefer researching the ballet online. Visit the ballet company’s website and Instagram for insights, and listen to music from the ballet if available. This will help you follow the story, which is often conveyed through costumes, scenery, and music.

Don’t Take Photos

Photography is not allowed during the performance to avoid distracting the dancers and risking their safety. You can take photos of the theatre during intermission or in the lobby, but not during the show.

Switch Off Your Phone

Turn your phone off or set it to silent to avoid distracting others. I always make sure mine is off so it doesn’t interfere with the performance.

Take Cash

Bring cash in small bills for snacks or drinks, although credit cards are generally accepted. In some places, cash is still preferred.

I hope these tips help you enjoy your ballet experience. Thank you for reading, and feel free to leave a comment!

Safe travels!