While many criticise content guidance in art and literature, others argue they help people make informed choices
When a London theatre decided to warn potential audiences about strong language, sexual references, grief and death in its latest production, the play’s celebrated star didn’t hold back.. “I quite like to be surprised by loud noises and outrageous behaviour on stage.”
But there is also a valid and more nuanced debate about the merit of such warnings. Some argue that they are little different to warnings about strobe lighting, which can trigger seizures, and allow people to make informed choices about what they see or read. This, said actor Simon Callow, demonstrated “a fundamental failure to grasp what the theatre is: not a model for behaviour but a crucible in which we look at what it is to be human”.
A spokesperson said: “Of course theatre can and should be challenging, but for a family musical we were giving honest and factual guidance for those who required it, that the show contained serious themes as well as Rodgers and Hammerstein’s glorious songs and uplifting story.” “You’re meant to feel emotions that feel uncomfortable, but in the safe environment of the theatre. You’re meant to feel fear, pity, anger, upset, horror, outrage … it’s meant to be able to change you.”
Jude Kelly, an acclaimed theatre director and founder of the Women of the World festival, said alerts about flashing lights or explosions had “been around for ages and [have] never been a problem”.
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