PETA Apologizes for Bad Theater Experience in One More Chance
We can't believe it has to be said.
(SPOT.ph) Theater etiquette was put under the spotlight during a recent run of the One More Chance, the Musical by the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) after it was shared in a viral post that a few audience members were using gadgets in full brightness during the show. PETA has since apologized for the bad theater experience.
On June 20, makeup artist B Delgado expressed her frustration on social media after her experience was disrupted by nearby audience members using a phone and even a laptop during the performance she was very excited for. She said the bright screens from the constant gadget use ruined the experience from Act 2 until the end.
“Ano yun, Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA)? When it’s a nobody, your ushers weave through the crowd to stop them but when it’s a celebrity and friends, dedma nalang? They were seated on the house seats so there was an usher beside them,” Delgado wrote in a Facebook post.
“Sabihin na natin that these people really don’t have theatre etiquette coz clearly, none talaga! This is where I blame PETAs ushers! You’re not there to watch the show. May trabaho kayo! Bakit hindi niyo pinigilan? Bakit hindi niyo inisip the audience around these uneducated people?! I paid to see the show not gadgets!”
Also read: One More Chance, the Musical Is Coming in 2024
PETA apologizes for bad theater experience at One More Chance, the Musical
Delgado’s post quickly went viral, sparking online discussion about proper behavior in theaters. Many echoed her sentiments about how inconsiderate gadget use detracts from the enjoyment of live performances.
PETA responded to the backlash by issuing a public apology to Delgado in the comments section of her Facebook post. Along with offering her complimentary tickets, the association reiterated its commitment to maintaining a positive theater experience for everyone.
“Please accept our sincerest apologies for the stress and frustration this has caused you. Rest assured that we are looking into this now and will immediately take the necessary actions,” PETA said. “We only wish a good and positive viewing experience for all of our audiences. Please allow us to give you a complimentary ticket so that you can properly enjoy the show.”
It’s not the first time people have called out phone use in the theater. In 2016, Lea Salonga took to X (formerly Twitter) to rant about the general lack of theater etiquette, particularly targeting audience members who use phones during performances. What’s worse is that “not all Philippine theater companies enforce it.”
Also read: Filipino Artists Want You to Turn Off Your Phone in the Theater