Magpie, that is incredible rudeness: and it's hard to believe that the woman didn't receive some physical threats from those around her. Most theaters these days, just before the start of the feature, project a short bit of film requesting the audience not to talk--and I think it is mostly respected, at least at the movies I attend. And--as I have mentioned here before--the culture of some venues is such that the audience is EXPECTED to refrain from talking during performances--and it works, even in a pub--the Starry Plough where I like to listen and sing is a great example. Some people come to drink and talk, but they are informed early on that during the songs, everyone is quiet--except for singing along on the choruses. The audience there is very mixed, but I would say the vast majority grew up in the age of amplified entertainment, yet manage to remain quiet to hear unamplified singers. If they don't, Shay Black and friends will escort them to the door, thank you.

--seed