Interesting point Grab.
I often play at the George Session nr London Bridge it is in a bar used by the general public and it can be very noisy and as the music increases in volume so does the talking.I can accept that and expect that and it does in no way effect my evening and if the audience joins in or appreciates the music even over their talking it is a bonus.Perhaps from Folk Clubs I see it differently I go there expecting to perform in front of an audience,who are completely focussed on all the acts and react accordingly to the performance.Perhaps I got it wrong.
Al