Theatrical Interludes: Unbelievable Patron Requests and Heckling Incidents
The theaters and concert halls are sanctuaries of art and culture, but they are not immune to the whimsy and unexpectedness of human behavior. Here are some of the most outrageous, strange, and unparalleled incidents involving patrons during theater shows, music performances, and magic acts.
Unexplained Patron Requests and Disruptions
Imagine a scene from a classic Hamlet monologue, where an audience member shouting, 'Kiss her already so we can all go home!' While such incidents might occur in other parts of the world, my experience has been quite different. My utterances and actions on stage have been well appreciated by audiences in my region, largely composed of well-educated individuals.
One standout experience involved a father of an actress who inquired about nudity in a show about a week before the opening night. I calmly explained what is known in our genre as 'stage nudity.' He was visibly relieved, and we managed to avoid any miscommunications or replacements.
Professional Heckling and Performance Training
Professional actors have interrupted performances, staging their interventions as part of the show. Similarly, adult hecklers have been part of acting courses where we learned how to deal with hecklers. These interruptions were always premeditated and not genuine reactions.
One of the most memorable occasions during a classical music performance was when people left during a performance because the music was too modern. Surprisingly, no hecklers have been present at classical music concerts in my part of the world. However, such incidents are more common in other genres and regions.
Classical Guitar and Party Requests
My main instrument is the classical guitar, though I've also played the piano and cello. Since about 2000, my cello playing has been more prominent. Nevertheless, at parties, it's my guitar that is most often invited to play. Playing something classical often leads to the inevitable question, 'Do you know this song?' No matter if I recognize it, the audience will sing, and I'll accompany them.
Among the more peculiar requests, one stands out: a song titled 'Green Onions.' This is a reference to a concert album of the Hungarian rock band Omega, where the audience requested an encore of their 1969 song 'Gyngyhajú lány.' Interestingly, 'Green Onions' is an inside joke between musicians and audience members.
Adult and Kid's Show Heckling
The most notable incidents of real heckling occur in kid's shows. A bigger kid once accused me of not having anything in my hand when miming a flower or a sword fight, to which I retorted, 'Use your imagination if you have one,' and it usually worked. Another time, a child wanted to attack a wolf and, unable to climb to the stage, yelled, 'Kick the wolf in the [Hungarian expletive for female genitalia] Little Red Riding Hood!' These incidents were not due to bad behavior but were honest reactions from children perceiving danger in the performance.
On another occasion, a child greeted the Witch in Hansel and Gretel with, 'Get out you stinky old whore!' While this language is outrageous, it reflects the environment and the expressions children absorb from their surroundings. They often learn faster and more comprehensively than adults expect them to.
Conclusion
Despite the unexpected and bizarre incidents, it's reassuring to live in a world where theater performances and classical music concerts are less marred by heckling. These experiences have made me grateful for the understanding and respectful communities I have encountered. In these spaces, art thrives, and the occasional mishap is a testament to the vibrant diversity of human behavior.