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For the Cappies awards and your feedback on shows to be meaningful, people must know that your evaluation is objective – that it is based solely on your knowledge of theatre and what you observed in the show – without any outside influence. Therefore, when working as a Critic at a show, it's best to socialize only with fellow Critics. Even waving at a friend you have at the host school may be interpreted by others as bias toward the school's show. This also includes texting or the use of any social media. So, to preserve your integrity as a Critic, keep with your fellow Critics. Your friend(s) will understand. For the same reason (and the sake of your relationship), if you have a really close friend on the cast or crew, it's best not to even review their show. That's what professional theatre critics do in the same situation.
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While the cast and crew of the show are eager to hear what you thought of their work, your opinions must be presented carefully to give a balanced evaluation of the whole production – and to prevent hurting their feelings. After all, these students are amateurs students like you, just learning their craft. The Review Writing Guide will show you how to appropriately present your evaluation of these students' work.