"Don't Hold Up Large Signs": Etiquette Rules From a Girl Who's Really Into Concerts

(SPOT.ph) As a teen, my chosen vice was to watch concerts—a lot of them. It was unmatched. Every time an artist or band I liked was scheduled to perform in Manila, I couldn’t not go. I would only use up P20 pesos of my lunch allowance, buying an adobo egg with rice and nothing more, just so I could save the remaining balance and splurge on a P5,000 concert ticket. Using up what life savings at that time I had helped, too.

In total, I’ve probably seen more than 40 acts from concerts and music festivals in my 23 years of living.

I’ve gone alone, with a date, and in a big group; in the nosebleeds and in the VIP section; at Araneta Coliseum, Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, New Frontier Theater, The Filinvest Tent, and Philippine Arena. No matter how or where I showed up, there is always one constant but unwelcome thing I can expect: inconsiderate people will ruin the experience in some minor way.

Best behaviors in concerts might not come naturally to a first-timer, which is why we’re taking the time to list the do’s and don’t of watching a concert. After all, a dark and loud environment isn't an excuse to behave however you want.

Also read: Concertgoers, Here's Your Ultimate Guide to the Philippine Arena

Keep these concert etiquettes in mind for your next show

Respect personal space

The crowd can get really packed at concerts, so this is easily at the top of our list. Anyone can be prone to taking up someone else’s space without realizing it, especially if dancing is involved. I’m pretty sure I have violated this at one point as well.

I get it: Everyone has a high energy level during concerts. Trust me, I do, but that isn't enough reason to push or shove other people like they’re collateral damage to your excitement. Remember to at the very least keep this in mind to prevent you from ending up breathing someone else's air.

Don’t hold up a large sign

This goes for banners, light sticks, and other concert paraphernalia that could obstruct the view of those behind you.

Thankfully, several concert venues like MOA Arena and Philippine Arena have since banned posters that are bigger than A4 size. Still, it doesn’t stop other fans from sneaking in folded signages (and I've tried in my earlier days). The worst ones are when the poster is turns out to be a huge A0-sized paper. Light sticks are another thing. It might be small, but the blinking colors can easily distract people from watching the show.

My most recent concert had the people in front of me recording themselves (with flash on!) singing along to the songs. Fine, it makes for a great video memorabilia of you and your friends having fun, but not so much when there’s a grumpy face staring at your camera from the back.

Refrain from heckling

Let’s face it: Filipino heckling can be funny as heck, especially when the situation calls for it. Doing it repetitively while others are trying to watch a performance is a whole different conversation though.

Although audience interaction is expected and encouraged at certain shows, heckling or shouting inappropriate comments can be disruptive and disrespectful to the performers.

Seriously, those “anakan mo 'ko” comments aren’t necessary, especially if you’re in the second to the last section of the arena to begin with. You do know that artists are wearing earpieces that tune out the crowd, right?

Also read: Remember How Much Cheaper Concert Tickets Were in the Early 2010s?

Respect seating arrangements

Some people try to get away with closer seats if they can. This is a fact I've experienced too often.

Concert venues often have assigned seating to ensure an organized and fair distribution of seats among attendees. Trying to move closer to the stage by occupying empty seats that are not yours is not cool. Be considerate of the person you’re robbing seats from.

With that said, make sure to confirm your seat number and location before settling. This will prevent any unintentional confusion during the event.

Don’t throw items on stage

This one goes out to people in floor standing sections. Just because you paid to be close to the stage doesn’t mean you have the permission to throw objects on it in hopes of getting the performer’s attention.

It doesn’t matter if it’s handwritten letters, friendship bracelets, or other sweet/shock gifts that you think your millionaire favorite will appreciate. It will most likely end up in the bin anyway (sorry).

Don’t let it get to a point where Cardi B has to chuck a microphone at you for this behavior to stop.

Also read: From a 36G Bra to Mom’s Ashes: 10 Crazy Items Fans Have Thrown on Stage in 2023

Don’t hog the queue

Buying food, drinks, or fan merchandise? Make sure you know (or at least have an idea of) what you want before reaching the front of the line.

Waiting times for stalls is often hell, regardless if the concert venues is small like the Araneta Coliseum or big like the Philippine Arena. With so many fans packed in one place, demand will almost always outweigh the supply (or at least the line for it).

Having the foresight to decide on your choices before reaching the front of the line is a thoughtful display of concert etiquette that everyone will appreciate. By knowing what you want in advance, you contribute to shorter waiting times, smoother transactions, and less congestion at the vendor stands.