All theatres have a responsibility to nurture new audiences. So why do some of the best-funded companies seem so uninterested in engaging children and families, asks Lyn Gardner.
It always surprises me how few theatres realise that the obvious way to build an audience for the future is to create quality work for children and families. Theatre-going is a habit, and although it’s an expensive one that can drain a household budget, many families will try to find the money if they can find the shows and are assured of quality. And that doesn’t just mean the pricy West End blockbusters.
Maybe as with government policies, theatre policies are dictated by short-termism because, if there’s no audience in 20 years’ time, it’s probably not going to be the problem of current boards and artistic directors. But everyone has a responsibility to nurture new audiences and give young people the opportunity to use their imaginations and experience the performing arts... Keep reading on The Guardian
It always surprises me how few theatres realise that the obvious way to build an audience for the future is to create quality work for children and families. Theatre-going is a habit, and although it’s an expensive one that can drain a household budget, many families will try to find the money if they can find the shows and are assured of quality. And that doesn’t just mean the pricy West End blockbusters.
Maybe as with government policies, theatre policies are dictated by short-termism because, if there’s no audience in 20 years’ time, it’s probably not going to be the problem of current boards and artistic directors. But everyone has a responsibility to nurture new audiences and give young people the opportunity to use their imaginations and experience the performing arts... Keep reading on The Guardian