People, it seems, have completely forgotten and are clueless to the implied ules"" of concerts. The goal of live shows is for everyone to have a good time, so don't wreck it for everyone else. Just follow these basic rules, and you will have fun.
How to dress: First thing's first; do not wear a shirt promoting the band you are going to see. It's just plain tacky. The mere fact that you are going to see a band perform means you support them and are a fan; you don't need a shirt to say that. Leave the band shirt off and find something more appropriate.
With your attire, do not attempt to try too hard for shock value or to make the biggest fashion statement, just be yourself.
How to Act: This category is probably the most important aspect of the concert experience. Some people just do not understand how to be a ""good"" fan. If you want to obtain a front-row seat, or a good seat for that matter, you need to get there early. You can't expect to get there five minutes before the doors open and claim a spot in the front. Don't be the jerk that squeezes his way up to the front; people do not appreciate it and you are disrespecting those who planned ahead and waited.
And sing along only if the band wants you to sing along. Please, don't sing above the lead singer, especially if you sing out of tune. The crowd did not come to see you perform, so don't be the attraction unless you are on stage. Go with what the crowd and band are doing together. Don't try to lead fans in a direction they don't want to follow, leave that job to the band.
Like singing, it is unwise to shout out which song they should play next, especially if you are shouting at them to play their single. They will play it, most likely towards the end, so just be patient. Shouting which song to play just wastes time because they already created their set-list.
Also remember to stay within your territory. While it is still fine to dance, don't invade the space of the person next to you. Space is tight and limited, and you make it even worse if you become obnoxious while dancing. By dancing to the extreme you will inadvertently push the person next to you and create a domino effect, resulting in the crowd pushing and shoving for space. This leads to tragedies. Don't be the one to provoke it.
Above all else, don't be the unbearable drunk who causes harmful bodily functions. Nobody wants to be next to a potential puker. If you feel the urge, quickly escape to the nearest bathroom in order to avoid a messy situation.
Beth's column runs weekly. You can reach her at eawick@wisc.edu.
