A-list actress Cate Blanchett has recently urged theatre audiences to refrain from using their phones during performances. This plea came during her appearance at London’s National Theatre in the production of *Electra/Persona*, where she addressed the audience during the curtain call on Friday.
Blanchett expressed her appreciation for the audience’s enthusiasm but highlighted the importance of being present in the moment. She noted that while filming the curtain call may seem flattering, it detracts from the experience for those attending subsequent performances. Her remarks were met with applause and cheers from the audience.
One audience member recounted an incident that occurred earlier in the performance, where filming took place between acts. They explained that during the intermission, while cast members were preparing for the next act, latecomers were being admitted, and staff were cleaning the stage. It was during this time that Blanchett noticed someone recording and gestured for them to stop. She reiterated her request to the audience before they left the theatre.
The individual clarified that the filming was not of the actual performance but rather of the interval when the cast was still on stage. They noted that such filming is a common occurrence, and staff typically do not intervene. This was reportedly the first time Blanchett had personally addressed the issue during their multiple visits to the play.
*Electra/Persona*, directed by Benedict Andrews, is a unique blend of Sophocles’ tragedy *Electra* and Ingmar Bergman’s film *Persona*. The production features Blanchett sharing the roles of Electra/Elisabeth and Clytemnestra/Alma with co-star Nina Hoss, with the roles determined by a live coin toss before each performance. The play is scheduled to run until 10 October.
For more details, visit the full article on BBC News.
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