By EMILY SPARACINO / Staff Writer

HOOVER – Members of the Greystone Ladies Club left their February luncheon with a better understanding of theatre etiquette and dining etiquette in foreign countries.

Kathie Martin, founder and president of The Etiquette School of Birmingham, gave the ladies tips on how to enjoy theatre outings while also respecting others and the performers.

Martin’s tips covered punctuality, what to do if one is late arriving and when applause is appropriate.

“Once the performance has begun, try to take a code of silence,” Martin said. “No running conversation.”

The silence includes turning off cell phones, she said.

Regarding dining in other countries, Martin suggested studying a country’s customs prior to going, and following them as closely as possible, especially when dining with one or more native residents.

“Show courtesy to the country where you are,” Martin said. “Before going to a country, look up what their customs are.”

She talked about the proper use of different utensils – chopsticks, for example – and how to approach a meal in which dishes are shared among all diners.

Martin closed with a brief overview of times and traditions related to tea, particularly in England.

The theme of the club’s March luncheon is “All About Alabama.”