This Way, Please

Like bartenders and bus drivers, movie theater ushers occasionally have their troubles with the bothersome fringe of humanity. But they do not lack for sound advice. The cinema trade organ Boxoffice has culled a few helpful hints for ushers from a manual prepared in Ohio by Warner Bros, for its theaters. Examples:

P: "Be diplomatic when referring to guests and use the terms, 'Gentlemen,' 'Lady' or 'Child.' "

P: "If asked your opinion of the performance, answer: 'The comments are very favorable, sir,' or 'I think you will enjoy it.' "

P: "Keep your hands off the guests."

P: "Do not disturb [petting couples] unless the conduct is [attracting] attention . . . If their conduct is noticeable . . . say: 'It will be necessary for me to call one of the management if your attitude does not change at once.' "

P: "[Tell an intoxicated person]: 'If you will come with me there is a friend in the lobby who would like to speak with you.' This statement cannot offend and being in a suggestive tone will be apt to be carried into effect."

P: "Mothers with crying children should be treated with the utmost courtesy and care . . . Say: 'I am very sorry, Ma'am, but I must ask you to take the little one to the rest room.'"

This file is automatically generated by a robot program, so reader's discretion is required.