What is crucial for teachers to explain to students before seeing a live performance?

It is essential for teachers to explain the conventions of theatre to students before they attend a live performance because these conventions help set expectations and enhance the overall viewing experience. Understanding aspects such as the roles of performers, the use of stage directions, the importance of audience engagement, and the use of theatrical devices (like breaking the fourth wall or soliloquies) allows students to grasp what they will witness during the performance. This foundation can deepen their appreciation and understanding of the narrative, themes, and emotional impact of the work. By knowing these conventions, students are better prepared to engage actively with the performance and interpret its various elements effectively.

In contrast, while the duration of the performance, the importance of seating arrangements, and the historical context of the play can also be significant, they are not as essential in framing the experience of how to engage with and understand the performance itself. Understanding conventions fosters a sense of familiarity that can make the experience more immersive and enjoyable.