What is the etiquette of applause?

Question

It has been a long time since I went to a ballet performance by a major company.  I am a supporter of the arts, but generally go to symphony and opera over ballet.  At those performances, one doesn't applaud until the end of a scene.  And the performers don't take bows until the end of the performance.

Today I went to the Nutcracker with some 5 year olds.  I had hoped to set a good example, but found myself confused regarding the etiquette of applause.  Is one really expected to applaud *every* pas de deux?  Pas de trois?  Company dance?  Or was it simply that a Saturday matinee performance of the Nutcracker brought out a less experienced crowd (myself included)?

Thank you in advance for your answers and for not mocking me.

Suze N · Accepted Answer

I know where you're coming from.  When you're at a professional performance of some sort, it's a little uncomfortable when half the audience bursts into applause after each number.  But I think in some cases, it's almost expected- especially a matinee of the Nutcracker.  You could explain to the children that we don't usually applause until the show is over have them look to you for your example, although kids are often eager to clap whenever anyone else is.  

Another case would be a high school musical- usually the audience wants to be so supportive of the performers that every song, dance, speech, etc. will get applause and cat-calls- and of course there will be a standing ovation at the end whether they deserved it or not.  Not much you can do except sit quietly and try not to look annoyed.

Anonymous · Answer

The nutcracker is a little "special" because it is so family friendly.  If the kids think every pas de deux is cool, then let them applaud!

netah_2002 · Answer

I recently attended a ballet and found the applause during the dance numbers distracting.

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What is the etiquette of applause?

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