Audience Guide

Things you need to know for a great visit.

Come early, don’t be late!

Tardy guests interrupt the magic created by the start of a performance. Most guests time their travel to arrive 30 minutes prior to curtain. This is an adequate timeline to park, walk to the theatre, use the restroom and peruse the program.

Our venue lobbies typically open 60 minutes prior to curtain. House doors typically open 30 minutes prior to the performance.

Late arrivals may be held in the lobby until a suitable pause in the program. The timing of late entry into the theatre is coordinated to minimize disruption to other guests and the performers on stage.

During the performance

Remain seated. Time your exits and re-entry in the seating areas to occur only at intermission, or, in case of emergency, in between songs/scenes. Movement in the auditorium is a distraction to the artists on stage as well as patrons around you.

Phones, laptops and other devices that make sound or emit light during the performance are strictly prohibited as they disturb other patrons and the performers. Please turn all electronic devices to silent or off during the performance.

During the performance, talking and whispering is prohibited, in that it distracts both the performers and the audience from the action.

Dress code

Shirts and shoes are required. Comfortable clothing is desired. Many patrons attend our performances in casual business attire. Some dress formally. Some wear jeans and sneakers. Be comfortable. We’re glad to host you.

Intermission

Most performances feature a 15 minute intermission.

Safety

Please report suspicious behavior and medical emergencies to the nearest usher. No alcohol, cameras, glass bottles or weapons of any kind are allowed in our venues.

Temperature

The heating and cooling systems that support our venues are of varying age, capacity and sophistication. While our goal is to present in 72 degree spaces, factors such as humidity, rapidly changing weather, the number of audience members in attendance and even how the space has been used throughout the day can have an impact on perceived comfort. We recommend layering for those who are susceptible to cold or heat.

Lost and found

All lost and found items are reported to the Welcome Desk in Main Campus Student Center at 252-328-4700.

Fine print

Prices include fees and sales tax in accordance with NC General Statute 105-164.4(a)(10).

Parental discretion is always advised and the judgment of the content and suitability of each performance should be made on an individual basis prior to purchase.

Programs, dates, artists and times are subject to change.

Messick Theatre Arts Center Box Office and the ECU Central Ticket Office are the only official ticket providers for ECU Arts events. Tickets obtained from other unauthorized sources may be stolen, counterfeit or invalid due to payment issues and will not be honored. When you purchase from ECU, we can assist you if your tickets are lost or stolen. ECU is not responsible for tickets purchased from other sources.

Everyone, regardless of age, must have a ticket for admission. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Children under the age of five are not allowed, except at Family Fare performances.

Tobacco and tobacco-related products are prohibited. This includes vaping.

The creation of any photograph, video, or audio recording by camera, phone or any device whatsoever represents a copyright infringement and/or a contractual breach and is strictly prohibited by law.