Acclaimed actress Lesley Manville has ignited a passionate and divisive debate within the theatre community after publicly condemning audience members who take photographs during curtain calls, labelling the practice as 'insulting'. The two-time Olivier Award winner, aged seventy, is currently performing at the National Theatre alongside Aidan Turner in a new adaptation of Les Liaisons Dangereuses.
A Firm Stance Against Digital Intrusion
During a recent interview on BBC Radio 4, Manville expressed her dismay at the growing trend of theatre-goers using their phones to capture images as the cast takes their final bows. She revealed that her production has implemented a strict ban on photography both during the performance and after the curtain falls. 'Why can't they let it live in their souls for five minutes?' she questioned, lamenting what she perceives as a need to digitally document the experience rather than savour it emotionally.
Manville argued that this behaviour, which she observed frequently during her recent stint on Broadway in Oedipus, is a relatively new phenomenon in London's West End, having gradually spread from the United States. 'I feel so strongly about it,' she stated, explaining that an audio announcement is now played before each show to reinforce the prohibition, ensuring patrons cannot simply ignore written signs.
Viewing Photos as Disrespect Rather Than Praise
Contrary to the perspective that such photography is a form of appreciation, Manville interprets it as a slight against the art form. 'Come on, it's theatre! Let's preserve it,' she urged. 'Let's take the digital out of it just for a moment. We are all in this room, we are telling you a story, you’re listening. Clap or don’t clap, but don’t just stick your phone in our face. I find it insulting.'
While most theatrical productions explicitly forbid phone use during performances, many do not regulate the curtain call. Some shows, like the musical Six, even encourage audiences to record the final moments. Additionally, numerous theatre stars actively share fan-taken photos and videos of their curtain calls on social media, including performers like Amber Davies from Legally Blonde.
A Heated Online Controversy Erupts
Manville's comments quickly sparked a vigorous online discussion, with many theatre enthusiasts and fellow actors criticising her remarks as unfair and somewhat elitist. Critics contended that audience members merely wish to preserve a memento of a special occasion, especially given the escalating cost of theatre tickets, which makes each visit a significant financial investment.
Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse voiced a sympathetic counterargument, highlighting the economic realities for many families. 'Theatres nowadays is so expensive if a family has traveled far and saved up every last bit of their money to come to the theatre to enjoy and this is their first or very last time. That one picture will make their absolute life!' she wrote, suggesting that such photos can inspire future generations and keep dreams alive.
Arguments for Photography as Promotion and Celebration
Others pointed out that audience photography and subsequent social media sharing provide invaluable free marketing for productions. Dancing on Ice star Ben Hanlin remarked, 'if it was my show I would want them to take photos at the curtain call because they can post them on social media and get thousands of eyeballs on it! It’s free marketing.'
Loose Women presenter Denise Welch added that capturing the curtain call, particularly during a standing ovation, allows fans to share their joy with friends and celebrate the performers' hard work. Numerous online commenters echoed these sentiments, with one stating, 'It should be viewed like a standing ovation,' and another criticising Manville's stance as 'pretentious and out of touch.'
Several theatre professionals also disagreed publicly. One self-producing performer argued, 'As a self producer we need people to post about our shows on socials. It’s how we get our audience. Taking a photo of the curtain call is a respectful way to take a photo for socials.'
Support for Manville's Traditionalist Position
Despite the backlash, Manville received backing from several peers who share her desire to maintain theatre as a sacred, phone-free experience. Ted Lasso actress Hannah Waddingham enthusiastically endorsed her view, writing 'HEAR, HEAR Lesley Manville.' Desperate Housewives star Marcia Cross also agreed, commenting, 'Yes. Let the theatre be a sacred event.'
Actress Amanda Abbington and Supernanny's Jo Frost expressed their support with emojis, while fans online argued for greater presence in the moment. One supporter noted, 'We probably need to learn to be more in the moment with all aspects of our lives. Is there really a need for everyone to photograph absolutely everything.' Another warned of a society where experiences only feel validated through social media sharing.
This controversy underscores a broader cultural clash between traditional theatrical etiquette and modern digital habits, raising fundamental questions about audience engagement, artistic respect, and the economics of live performance in an increasingly connected world.
