Visitor guide

Your ticket will list the show start time – we recommend arriving at least 30 minutes beforehand so you have enough time to park, grab a beverage or snack, and find your seat.

If your show is general admission (GA) rather than allocated seating, then you may wish to arrive 45 minutes to an hour before the theatre’s doors open as there can often be long queues.

Our foyer will open an hour before the show starts and the bar 15 minutes later (45 minutes before the show).

We know life is hectic sometimes and things don’t always go to plan. However, the show must go on! If you don’t arrive in time, our ushers will help you to your seat as soon as possible.

Please be aware that many shows have a ‘lockout’ which means latecomers will have to wait for a suitable break (such as the interval) so they don’t disrupt the performance or create a distraction. You will receive a pre-show email which will outline any lockout information.

Not usually. Flash photography can be a safety hazard for performers and can be distracting for other audience members. Same goes for filming on your phone – when you’re in a dark theatre, any extra light is really obvious and can annoy others. Many shows are also subject to copyright agreements that don’t allow photos or recordings to be taken. If our ushers see you with a camera or phone, please don’t be offended if we ask you to put it away.

This depends entirely on the show. If the running time is longer than 90 minutes, you can usually expect a 20-minute interval at some point. Stretch your legs, grab something to eat or drink, and visit the bathroom. We will announce when it’s time to return to your seat.

Bathroom emergency? Young children getting restless? We understand that life happens. If you need to exit suddenly, please do so as quietly and discreetly as possible. Remember there might be a lockout policy in place which means you’ll then have to wait until there’s a suitable break in the programme before you can re-enter.

Running times are sometimes advertised by event organisers, but not always. If you need to know the approximate length to organise transport or make other plans, please contact our Box Office and we will do our best to advise.

The main rule of thumb is to be respectful to the performers on stage, and other audience members. Please switch off your phone (even if it’s on silent, the vibrations and light can still be distracting). And please don’t talk during the performance unless audience participation is part of the actual show! Try to keep rustling food wrappers and rummaging around in a handbag to a minimum too, please. A little courtesy goes a long way in making the experience enjoyable for everyone. If you'd like to understand more about behaviour expectations, please read our Conditions of Entry.

Whatever makes you feel comfortable! There’s no formal dress code at Baycourt but we recommend smart casual. Some people love the chance to dress up, while others keep it more relaxed. A theatre full of people can get a little warm, so layers are always a good idea, too.

If you’re coming in costume, please make sure it doesn’t block anyone’s view or take up more space than your seat.

Footwear must be worn at all times, and accessories that could be mistaken for or used as weapons aren’t permitted.

Most importantly, come ready to enjoy the show!

We all want to congratulate our loved ones after they’ve lit up the stage, or ‘fangirl’ on our favourite performer, but only cast and crew are allowed on stage or in the backstage areas. Please wait outside stage door or the main entrance into Baycourt.

The organiser(s)of your show or event will provide details to you, including a door access code for the Stage Door entry at the rear of the building. Please do not let anyone other than cast and crew inside the backstage area.