This has always bugged me, and seemed unsophisticated and uncalled for. I agree with these authors, although I also feel there is a confusion of who is performing for whom. Audience, you do not have a role and are not performing on cue.
You are not usually allowed in once the music has started.
The same should apply at football. No excuse for those who arrive late, leave their seats before half time, come back after the second half has started and leave before the end - especially as football is now mostly seated.
I think you're being seriously over complimentary to football players with that one.