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I'm reminded of some questions I've had while processing photos of a granddaughter's graduation in a large hall. I've shot images in generally dark locations, and of other granddaughters in figure skating shows, etc, and used different techniques. I've decided that--"it depends". For just generally dark locations, I've just cranked up the ISO. For the figure skating shows, what seems to work best is manual control, for exposing the best-lit areas (shows with spotlights and other concentrated lighting). For yesterday's graduation in the DC-area classic graduation setting (DAR Constitution Hall), with pretty good general house lighting and a spot-lit stage, I decided to go with ISO 6400, -1.0 exposure control, and Program mode, to account for the variations in lighting and the overall general darkness. For post-processing, I get the exposure to what looks good to me, then do noise reduction and sharpness. I'm satisfied with the results from the graduation (using a Sony a6300 and 18-105mm f4). I should say that I sometimes use negative EV in these situations so that the camera doesn't try to make the scene look like daylight. Questions: What are your general techniques for dark venues? When noise reduction will be required, what's your sequence of Clarity and Sharpening vs NR? thanks Bill