Why Audiences Talk During Awards Ceremonies (And How to Fix It)
By Ben Hanlin – magician, presenter and awards show host
I’ve heard it so many times from event organisers:
“People always talk through our awards.”
And usually, there’s one very simple reason:
They are bored.
As an awards show host, I hear all the classic explanations:
“It’s this group. They always talk.”
“It’s the industry. They love a drink.”
However, in my experience, 90% of the time, it’s none of those things. When an audience disengages, they naturally fill the gap with conversation. In other words, talking is simply a symptom of boredom.
The good news? Most causes are completely fixable.
Below are the most common problems I see at awards nights – and importantly, how organisers can instantly improve the experience.
Problem: The ceremony is too long
This applies to any event and is also one of the classic tips for public speaking: most people struggle to sit still and stay focused beyond 45–55 minutes.
Solution: Split the awards across dinner. Keep the energy moving and maintain momentum.
Problem: Too many speeches
Long speeches are one of the fastest ways to lose the room.
Solution: Keep welcome speeches short – ten minutes max, including the headline sponsor.
Problem: Slow dinner service
If the courses drag, the atmosphere drags with them.
Solution: Choose a venue known for smooth service or adjust your schedule to protect pacing.
Problem: Too many video packages
Long, slow VTs give the audience a perfect window to switch off.
Solution: Use short, punchy videos or reduce the number altogether.
Problem: No live camera
If people cannot see what’s happening on stage, they stop paying attention. It’s that simple.
Solution: Always have live cameras and screens for visibility.
Problem: Long scripts
Award citations do not need to be essays. Nobody wants a novel before each winner.
Solution: Be concise. Keep the flow moving and the audience engaged.
Problem: An ineffective host
If the host loses the room, moves too slowly, or cannot control the energy, it is incredibly hard to get the audience back.
Solution: Hire an experienced, engaging awards show host who knows how to read a room and bring it to life.
Problem: The Audience is too drunk
If this keeps happening, it’s almost always a timing issue.
Solution: Start the awards earlier in the night – before the drinks fully kick in.
These are the most common reasons audiences talk during ceremonies. Once you understand them, the fixes become much easier. The heart of any great awards night is engagement. Keep the energy high, keep things moving, and respect your audience’s attention.
If I’ve missed anything, let me know – I love hearing from organisers who want to make their events better.
P.S. I am Ben Hanlin – magician, keynote speaker, and corporate awards show host.
If you want your ceremony to be fun, engaging, and genuinely memorable, feel free to get in touch.