Anyone with an interest in theater and various other performing arts may have noticed an interesting pattern: spontaneous standing ovations seem to be the norm rather than the rarity. If you’ve been questioning whether everyone is expected to spring to their feet at the end of every concert or theater performance seen lately, you’re not just picking up on a random trend. The phenomenon of standing ovations has grown significantly prevalent in recent times.
The act has become so regular that a distinctive statement seems to be made by those audiences who decide to remain seated when the performance concludes. Are we now living in an era where it’s strange not to stand up and applaud? Stand up applause – a movement initially meaning to give the highest praise – is becoming a standard response in varied theater contexts.
Broadway, in particular, almost always sees standing ovations now. Shows off Broadway portray a slightly different story, the audience’s reactions varying more loosely. Musicals are more likely to evoke a standing ovation than plays, and upbeat shows receive this honor more frequently than those that end in an emotional abyss.
The audience age seems to impact this trend as well. Younger crowds, often more expressive and agile, are more frequently seen rising to their feet in applause. While there is a near guarantee of a standing ovation on Broadway these days, for off-Broadway shows, it’s a touch more elusive.
An analogous trend seems to be taking root in the realm of classical music. Standing ovations are practically expected now at opera and symphony performances across the United States. However, when comparing the acceptance of this trend internationally, European audiences are more restrained when it comes to standing applause in these settings.
Yet, this boom of vertical appreciation does not fully encompass all aspects of the performing arts. For instance, post-performance standing ovations following dance events are still quite a rare sight, only occurring after the most electrifying performances. Audiences at comedy gigs mainly offer seated expressions of enjoyment, although well-established comedians do draw standing ovations when performing in theater settings.
The question that arises, though, is why and how has this trend gained momentum? The tradition of clapping to show appreciation traces a remarkably long lineage. The standing ovation, however, is a relatively younger custom. Its popularity began to surge around the mid-20th century as an elevated gesture of acknowledgment for noteworthy performances. Over time, it has phased into a common way to express gratitude towards performers post-stage acts.
By the 1950s, a standing ovation was considered significant enough to make headlines. Yet, as the years passed and the practice became less unusual, this type of applause was increasingly given out, even to performances that didn’t quite hit the mark, diluting the value of the gesture. As the frequency of standing ovations increased, their significance diminished to the point of routine.
As an author who tracked the history of auditorium behavior noted, standing applause is now so pervasive that the lack of it leaves performers questioning their performance quality. On the rare occasion when a performance isn’t met with a standing ovation, the disappointment is visible on the performers’ faces, seemingly asking themselves what might have possibly gone wrong.
Peer pressure certainly plays a part in the spread of this trend. Further, there’s a financial aspect to consider; theater-goers often invest heavily to enjoy Broadway shows, with standing ovations serving as public signs of a worthwhile evening spent. Additionally, there’s the practicality to acknowledge: once those before you rise, you either stand for a clear view of the curtain call or remain seated squinting through heads and shoulders.
Are standing ovations truly problematic? Purists might say they’re concerned that the pervasiveness of standing ovations dilutes their value. Though, it must be noted that applause, standing or otherwise, is an enjoyable exercise for patrons. This is their chance to express appreciation and convey a heartfelt ‘well done’ to the performers and their creators. After all, unlike movies, the performers are right there on the stage.
Therefore, what’s the right course of action for an audience member? Well, nobody is holding a gun to your head to stand and applaud. There’s always a group of theater-goers who prefer to stay seated, to adhere to the traditional belief that standing ovations are rewards for extraordinary performances. It’s perfectly alright to be one of them.
As mentioned by an author of an online journal dedicated to musical theater, standing up at the end of a performance isn’t a compulsory act. But just in case the crowd’s enthusiasm draws you into its sway, you have alternatives at your disposal.
There are varying degrees to show your appreciation all the way from polite applause, such as finger tapping, to fervent clapping involving cupping hands for a louder effect or raising hands for visibility. If you prefer to be on the move, ‘the walking ovation’ allows you to appreciate the performance while swiftly maneuvering towards the exit. If displeased, you can even resort to ‘hate-applause,’ which takes the form of slow, sarcastic clapping. The choice, in the end, is entirely up to you.
In summary, the rise of the standing ovation as a standard response to performances, while a cause for concern among purists, offers audiences a way to express their enjoyment and appreciation. The decision to participate is a personal one, influenced by many factors, from the quality of the performance to the behavior of fellow audience members. As always, personal discretion is advised.