Which action results in a 5 demerits penalty during a performance?

The action that results in a 5 demerits penalty during a performance is speaking to outsiders not in the travel party. This rule is typically in place to maintain team cohesion and ensure that members remain focused on their performance and the overall team objectives. Engaging with individuals outside the designated travel party could lead to distractions, miscommunication, or the potential for unprofessional behavior, which would undermine the discipline and unity expected during a performance.

In contrast, while the other options represent violations of the team's dress code or behavioral standards, they do not carry the same level of disruption to team dynamics as communicating with outsiders during a performance does. Speaking to those outside the team can directly affect the performance atmosphere and potentially lead to complications that impact the team's overall representation.