It’s never actually occurred to me to read a play before going to see the show. But that’s not something I’d do anyway. That cast worked hard to bring the script to life and that’s how I want the story told to me.

That being said, I’ve done a lot of theater and there are shows that I know and love, even if I’ve never done them, and would not miss an opportunity to see.

Depends how old. If it's a Shakespeare play, I like to have read the play beforehand so that I can understand the nuance in the performance. If it's an opera, I'll probably read a synopsis beforehand. If it's a stage play in English written since the 19th century I'll probably have more fun going in without prior knowledge.

I love going in cold.