I think the only answer there is to have said nothing. I was polite, treated him respectfully while still confronting the subject directly. He probably felt em

I think the only answer there is to have said nothing. I was polite, treated him respectfully while still confronting the subject directly. He probably felt embarrassed in front of his friends and his usual intimidation approach didn't work, so he acted out. He had an opportunity to respond maturely, but he did not have the maturity to do so. I empathize with his position and acknowledge he may have not previously had the context and positive influences in his life to exercise using his words and expressing his emotions productively. I should note, he was probably 20 years old, just out with his friends, being a typical cocky young person. He didn't know how to handle this situation appropriately, and responded poorly. On the other hand, I could have instead told theater staff who were probably in a position to handle things better than me. Part of me wishes I had done this, but I don't think I should avoid civil confrontation in the future because I'm afraid of a violent response.