Theater seating is defined as a restaurant located in or near a theater, opera house or arena. Usually the guests will arrive and then at the same time. In that case, structure is paramount and communication with the kitchen is more important than anything else.
It is also important to have a dialog with the guests so that they understand the situation, that this is why it is crowded and the staff seems to be stressed.

Advise the guests that they have their entire order ready the first time around and that it MAY be an advantage for them to pay before the food arrives at the table. Then explain to them that they can just get up and leave whenever they want so that they don’t miss their performance. They won’t have to feel stressed by sitting and waiting to pay as the others may have to pay at the same time as they are going to the same show, resulting in long waiting times.

They can also pay while they are eating. Tell them and explain why you are charging “in the middle of the meal” and that it is for their benefit.

It is very important and to your advantage to take control and direct the guests from the beginning when they arrive. It will not be a bad atmosphere when you ask for payment before they have finished their food. This shows them that you care about your guests.