Concert etiquette has reportedly reached a low point, with incidents ranging from projectile objects and excessive phone use to disturbing instances of public defecation. Experts attribute this decline to a combination of factors, including the social isolation experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing influence of social media.
Mariah G. Humbert, a Gen Z etiquette expert, and Jo Hayes, an Australia-based etiquette expert, both highlight the impact of the pandemic on young people's social development. Many individuals in their formative years experienced limited social interaction between 2020 and 2022, missing out on crucial lessons in courtesy, consideration, and reading social cues. Hayes suggests that this lack of "social training" was partially replaced by exposure to social media, which may have blurred the lines of acceptable behavior in public settings.
"It’s almost as if common courtesy is less prioritized today," Humbert stated, while also noting that social media's reach might simply make such incidents more visible. "We are simply more aware of the behavior now more than ever before."
The rise in public defecation at concerts has been particularly concerning. Humbert described such behavior as unsanitary, unacceptable, and disrespectful. Musicians have publicly addressed the issue; Noah Kahan, for instance, implored concertgoers to use restrooms and respect venue staff following an incident in Philadelphia. During a subsequent show in Toronto, Kahan led the audience in an oath to "poop in the toilet, not on the floor." Humbert acknowledged Kahan's framing of attending a concert as a "social contract," emphasizing that individual actions impact others, especially at large public events.
To foster a more positive concert experience, experts advise adhering to the golden rule: treat others as you would like to be treated. This includes being mindful of one's surroundings and the impact of one's behavior on fellow attendees.
Recommended practices include responsible alcohol consumption, staying hydrated, and being aware of personal space and belongings. Attendees are also encouraged to locate security and treat venue staff with respect.
Conversely, experts advise against disruptive behaviors such as talking or singing too loudly, filming entire shows without regard for others, or using phone loudspeakers for calls or conversations. Humbert noted a personal experience where an intoxicated attendee's excessive singing "ruined" a concert for her and her companions.
When recording is permitted, Humbert suggests being mindful of phone placement and lighting to avoid obstructing the view or experience of those nearby. Ultimately, experts stress that concerts are communal experiences. In an era dominated by personal documentation, it's crucial to remember that public venues require a heightened sense of self-awareness and consideration for others to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for all.