Originally posted by MartyW Was that a recent problem red?

Originally posted by MartyW as far as having to change before greeting.... (I was a little miffed and confused recently)

To me, it just ruins the entire effect because then they can see a set piece used in Act 2 or see people changing costumes.  It really does ruin the "magic" of what theatre really is.

NEVER NEVER NEVER.  First of it breaks the suspension of disbelief, second off it pulls the actors out what they are doing, and third off, they get in the way.  Its just not cool. 

Now one thing we do, do however, is we immediately come out after curtian call and greet the audience, talk to family and friends and such.  It's a tradition in our theater and I've noticed audience members love the chance to tell the actors good job, or take pictures with the cast etc. 

If people had to pass by us to get out of the theater, I would completely agree with you it would be like trapping them in there and demanding compliments and pats on the back which is I agree with you tacky.  Our theather is set up so the exit is at the back of the auditiorium.  So the audience doesn't have to pass by us to leave.  We also don't line up or anything...it's very informal.  The actors just kinda wander out and talk to family and friends  etc. and it isn't a requirement that the cast come straight out and talk to anyone if they don't want to (For example, I had a particularly bad night as the Mute in the Fantasticks this last spring and so i just stayed backstage until the audience was gone and then went to help clean up).  I just think it makes members of the theater more accessable and friendly.  Many think it's bad no matter what, others think it's totally ok.  I think it depends upon the theater group, area (we are in a small town so we either know most of the audience or they are people that come time after time after time, with a sprinkling of tourists), and the layout of the theater.