[DGx2]

I know this will probably open a Pandora's box, but what's up with the crowds at the squares not applauding the performers? I have lived here for almost three years and frequent the squares for (free) nightly entertainment on an average of once a week. Some of the bands are fantastic, some not so much, but it never ceases to amaze me that 98% of the people there do not applaud the bands, no matter how good they are. Am I missing something? Is it rude to clap at the end of a song or set? Are the performers insulted if you show them any appreciation? Perhaps in Florida it's too hot too clap. Can someone straighten me out on this. Thanks, DGX2. P.S. Maybe because it's free people don't appreciate it.

[graciegirl]

We don't go often, but we were there last night and applauded.

I dunno. It might be people have different "bringin's up".

[kathy and al]

"Maybe because it's free people don't applaud"??????????????Huh????
Do you think that this entertainment is done on a charity basis by these performers?

[Tom Hannon]

I know a musician/band plays to the audience. If the audience gets into the music the band will play better. If they show less appreciation the band might not give it their all. I almost always applaud. I noticed the same thing at Katie Bells. One time I was the only person clapping.

[Pturner]

DGX2,
I applaud you consideration for the performers and agree wholeheartedly.

[DGx2]

My wife and I were down there the other night. Caribbean Chillers was performing. In my opinion a very good band. It was quite a lively crowd. A lot of people dancing and seemingly enjoying the show, but I would estimate that 75% of the people there did not applaud at the end of the songs, even the ones that were obviously crowd pleasers the vast majority did not clap. Similar situation a few weeks ago when Empire, a phenomenally talented band in my opinion, performed.

[DGx2]

I didn't mean the performers played for free. I meant that the audience can enjoy for free.

[BritParrothead]

I always applaud, even if they are not so good. We have to encourage the bands I think!

[Here2Stay]

RUDE....just plain rude people

[villages07]

I usually applaud as it shows the band you enjoy their music. As I look around at others, so many people are engaged in conversation they don't seem to notice the band. If 25% applaud, that's not bad. I think the performers are also rewarded by seeing the energy on the dance floor. Much better than looking out to a sea of people sitting in chairs.

Conversely at Savannah Center concerts, the audience applauds heartily after each song. Same people, different venue.

[wendyquat]

Now, how can you clap with a drink in your hand?

[Joaniesmom]

I would applaud if they were the worst entertainers ever. My applause would be for the sheer guts it takes to get up there in front of a bunch of people and perform your best, even if it isn't up to their standards. I'd never do it!

[JoeC1947]

Originally Posted by wendyquat

now, how can you clap with a drink in your hand?

lol!!!

[bluedog103]

Originally Posted by Tom Hannon

I know a musician/band plays to the audience. If the audience gets into the music the band will play better. If they show less appreciation the band might not give it their all. I almost always applaud. I noticed the same thing at Katie Bells. One time I was the only person clapping.

Tom you're absolutely right. The musician/band feeds off the audience. I don't think any performer gives a lackluster performance on purpose but you just automatically do a better job when the audience is responding to your work. I've performed for many years and if the audience is having fun the musicians are having fun too, and it shows.

[John_W]

We only go when Uncle Bob's Rock Shop, Yesterdayze or Cactus Jack and the Cadillacs are performing. When any of those three bands are playing, everyone claps. Now, if you're there when it's the girl with the band in the box, that might explain the lack of enthusiasm.