Performance is one of the most nerve-wracking and exhausting things an actor will ever do. It’s also exhilarating, rewarding, and challenging. 
This can make it tricky to know what to say when congratulating them after a show. Here are some ideas for how you can thank an actor after a play.

Tell them they were beautiful

Tell them they were beautiful

Nothing will make an actor feel you’re on their side faster than if you tell them they are beautiful. After the high intensity of a show, they’re probably feeling pretty low. They might have lost their voice, been exhausted, plainly scared, and felt like they had let the cast and crew down. They’ll appreciate a reminder that they were great. When you tell them they were beautiful, they’ll be able to focus on that, not the things they’re worried about. If they get another role, they’ll be able to draw on that confidence and take on the challenge with gusto. They’ll appreciate you reminding them of how good they are.

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Ask them what they thought of the show

This is a fabulous way to keep the conversation on a positive note. If they’re open to talking about it, they’ll get a chance to analyze their work and the rest of the cast and crew. You’ll also get to hear their thoughts and feelings about the whole experience, which will give insight into how your friend or family member feels about it.

After a success, tell them how proud you are

how proud you are

If their show was a success, congratulate them on the accomplishment, and tell them how proud you are of what they’ve achieved. They’ve worked hard to get where they are and deserve to be proud of their success. While they might not feel all that proud now, they’ll appreciate your words of encouragement. When you tell them how proud you are, they’ll be able to focus on that, not the things they’re worried about. If they get another role, they’ll be able to draw on that confidence and take on the challenge with gusto. They’ll appreciate you reminding them of how much you believe in them and their talent.

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After a flop, remind them of their excellent work

If their show wasn’t successful, tell them how proud you are of their work and that you know they did their best. Remind them of their excellent work and that it was only one night; they’ll get another chance. They probably already know this, but you telling them will remind them that you’re on their side. They’ll appreciate your reminder that it wasn’t their fault and that they didn’t let you down.

Offer to get food with them or go for drinks

Offer to get food with them or go for drinks

After a show, everyone is going to want to celebrate. Just check with them first to see if they want to go out or if they’d prefer to get takeout and enjoy it at home. Even if they’re not in the mood for a party, they’ll appreciate that you want to spend time with them and support them. They’ll also understand that you’re not pushing them to go out if they want to stay in.

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Conclusion

Congratulating an actor after a show can be tricky. They might be exhausted and wish that everyone would leave them alone. However, they’ll appreciate your support and words of encouragement. Tell them they were terrific, ask what they thought of the show, and celebrate their success. After a flop, let them know that it was only one night and offer to get food or go for drinks with them. After a show, actors need support, and they’ll appreciate any words spoken from a place of kindness and confidence.