The default attitude for an audience before you begin might be said to be “show me.” They want to be entertained or informed or whatever. They expect you to do it. They might even be resistant to your first efforts to get them to respond.
But audiences love appropriate audience involvement — eventually. Start slow with a raised hand or a filed-in card or form. Then get them to interact with a neighbor. Then, when sufficiently warmed up, ask them to dance on the tables.
Audiences love to be involved even if they are reluctant to begin. Start slow and easy.
Thanks to Keith Schroeder, Master DJ for this idea.