Lesley Manville ignites theatre debate after saying photos during curtain calls are ‘insulting’

‘Clap or don’t clap, but don’t just stick your phone in our face’, infuriated star said
To snap or not to snap – that is the question: Lesley Manville has ignited an impassioned debate after criticising “insulting” theatregoers who take photos during curtain calls.

According to the Olivier Award-winning star, she believes phones should be kept in pockets until after the cast have given their bows to an applauding audience.

Manville, who currently stars in Les Liaisons Dangereuses at the National Theatre, urged people to “take the digital out of it for just a moment”, stating: “Come on, it’s theatre – let’s preserve it!”
“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,” she said on Radio 4.

The Phantom Thread actor, 70, said it stems from people “wanting to prove they’ve seen” a production, but wondered why they “can’t let it live in their souls for five minutes”.

Manville noted it was particularly an issue on Broadway, saying that “virtually the whole audience will take their phones out at the end of the evening”, and has now noticed it “starting to filter in” to the West End, where it “never used to happen”.

However, the expected etiquette in plays can be different.

Manville’s Les Liaisons Dangereuses notes at the beginning that photos are not permitted during the curtain call, which might lead audience members to believe it’s OK to take out their phones when there is no disclaimer ahead of the show.

However, many others supported the idea of taking photos during the curtain call, including former Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse, who suggested that an audience member’s photo may have more of a lasting impact for that person than the actors realise.

“They get to keep that moment on their device for a lifetime.

That photo could be the difference of keeping the dream alive for a little kid and having them simply forget.”
Theatre performer Ali McGregor said she “disagrees strongly” with Manville’s view – especially as people posting about shows can help with promotion.

“I would never take a photo during the performance, but taking a photo of the curtain call is a respectful way to take a photo for socials.

It doesn’t take away from me sitting in the moment, doesn’t bother the rest of the audience’s enjoyment.

I find this an extraordinary thing to complain about.”
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