This article proposes ways of reimagining how performers and audiences relate to one another during live performances. In contrast to forms of participation where audiences emulate well-known performer and/or composer models, the authors argue for sensitivity to audiences as they present themselves. Attending to, reciprocating and adopting audience behaviour in/as performance can lead to novel interactions, identities and formats for creative practice. The authors discuss pieces by Pauline Oliveros, David Helbich and Carolyn Chen, as well as their own practice research.