Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Baycourt or a regular customer, here are some common questions we get asked that you may find helpful. If we haven’t answered your question here, please contact us on 07 577 7189 or baycourt@tauranga.govt.nz
What time should I arrive before a show?
We recommend that you arrive around 30 minutes before the show start time (the time printed on your ticket), to give yourself time to find a park, make your way to the theatre and enjoy a pre-show drink.
The Baycourt foyer and bar opens 45 minutes before the start of the show, and theatre doors usually open 30 minutes beforehand. There will be an announcement before the start of the performance asking you to make your way to your seats.
If the show is General Admission (rather than reserved seating), you may want to arrive slightly earlier, particularly if the show is sold out and if you’re with a group of people who wish to sit together.
What if I’m running late?
If you arrive at the theatre after the show has started, we may not be able to seat you immediately. This depends on whether the show has a lockout or not. Some shows may set a lock out, or time when latecomers can’t be admitted. This is so as not to disrupt the performers or other attendees.
If you are late arriving to a performance, the ushers will advise you when to take your seats.
What should I wear?
Wear what you feel comfortable in. Dressing up is part of the experience for some of our audience members, while many are quite happy to attend in jeans or casual clothing.
Can I take photos or videos?
It is usually not permitted to take any photos or video during performances. Flash photography can cause a safety hazard to performers as well as impacting on the enjoyment of other patrons, and often shows may have copyright issues that prevent them from allowing audience members to take photos. If you are seen using a camera or camera phone when it is not permitted, our ushers will ask you to stop.
On occasions, photography may be permitted for specific performances – please check with a member of our staff first.
Will there be an interval?
This depends on the show. Most performances, especially those that are longer than an hour, include an interval of around 20 minutes. Interval is a chance for you to stretch your legs, visit the bathrooms and purchase a drink or snack. An announcement will be made at the end of the interval asking you to return to your seat.
What else should I know?
Please switch off your mobile phone before the show starts. Even if your phone is on silent, the light and vibrations from your phone can be distracting to other audience members, as well as the performers. Please refrain from talking during the performance (unless it’s during audience participation).
Most of all, please consider other audience members and enjoy the show!