I WENT on two occasions last week to see the musical Never Forget at the New Theatre, Oxford, in which my friend Aimie Atkinson was playing the lead role of Chloe.

On Tuesday evening, a rather loud group of mature ladies continued to giggle like little schoolgirls behind me and my fiancee, which rather marred our evening.

On Saturday night, a rather annoying couple, who sat right behind me, had to analyse every scene by chatting about how good it was.

They also made a trip to the loo just minutes after the show had started.

Several camera flashes from the audience meant that illegal copywriting was being carried out. I wonder how many make it on the web? People were also recording video clips on their phones.

There were empty seats in my row until about 20 minutes in when people decided to turn up and mar my evening by expecting me to move.

Having worked in the West End and been involved in the theatre industry for a couple of decades, I wonder where the common courtesy of theatre patrons has gone?

Furthermore, it would appear that local theatres do not uphold the copyright law as severely as West End theatres.

I remember working at Starlight Express in London and a lady was removed by the police one day for recording the show.

There was not even a flinch from staff at the New Theatre. But to be honest, apart from seeing them at the door selling ice creams, I did not see any of them all night.

If you do go to the theatre, respect those who want to enjoy the show. Do not constantly chatter and giggle, or worse still, sing along. I pay to hear the cast sing, not you!

JUSTIN-LEIGH WALDEN, Marston Road, Oxford