Theatre Rules & Etiquette

Camera and Recording Device Policy:

Cameras and all other types of recording devices are not permitted in the Theatre and may be confiscated if used during a performance. Patrons who violate this policy may be expelled from the premises. This includes mobile phones and other electronic devices. For the respect of the artists and safety of the performers as well as the enjoyment of the audience, we ask that patrons turn off all their devices.

Late Seating Policy:

Every effort is made to start performances on time unless there is an unavoidable delay. Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the Front of House staff. In the case of a reserved house, latecomers forgo their right to their reserved seat and will be seated at the back of the auditorium or in the most easily accessible seats. If there is an intermission, patrons who were late arriving can find their reserved seat location during the intermission.

Individual producers of rental events retain the right to set their own late seating policy. The Theatre lobby opens 30 minutes prior to curtain.

Smoking:

Hart House Theatre is a non-smoking facility, on a non-smoking campus. When productions call for smoking on stage for artistic reasons, herbal cigarettes or water-vapour cigartettes are used. All fog/haze effects used in Hart House Theatre use non-harmful, water-based fluid.

Lost and Found:

Lost and Found items should be reported to Sara Filipowski at [email protected] or 416 978 3755.

Accessibility:

Hart House Theatre’s auditorium is wheelchair accessible via the Hart House elevator. Hart House’s accessible entrance is the West Entrance located on Tower Road. Patrons can then use the elevator to the “T” (Theatre) level to gain entrance to the Theatre’s lobby. To book accessible seating, inform us of an accommodation request for service animals, or seating arrangements for support persons call Sara Filipowski at [email protected] or 416 978 3755.

Emergencies or First Aid:

In case of any medical emergency please contact the nearest usher.

Children/Babes in Arms:

It is strongly recommended that children under 8 years of age not be brought to the theatre except for specifically advertised family and community events. Due to fire regulations all patrons, including children and infants, require a ticket for admittance. Please contact Audience Services Coordinator Sara Filipowski for age appropriate information for specific productions.

Every patron must have a ticket:

Fire regulations do not permit the Theatre to fill the house beyond its capacity. There are no exceptions to this requirement including infants and children. Standing room is not permitted in the auditorium during performances.

Covid Policies:

Please see U of T's latest statement on Covid Policies..

• There is no food or drink permitted in the theatre, with the exception of water.
• Avoid unwrapping candies and lozenges during the performance.
• Avoid talking, coughing, humming, rustling programs or kicking the backs of the seats during the performance.
• Refrain from wearing strongly perfumed beauty products and fragrances.
• Remain in your seat until the performance has completely ended and the house lights have been turned on.