Cate Blanchett has implored audiences not to film her during her current theatrical engagement, stating that such recordings detract from the experience for other patrons. The actress, who is performing in "Electra/Persona" at London's National Theatre, made the plea after a recent performance.
Blanchett, 57, is starring in Benedict Andrews' production, which merges Sophocles' tragedy "Electra" with Ingmar Bergman's 1966 film "Persona." In a video shared on social media, Blanchett was seen addressing the audience at the Lyttelton Theatre. She emphasized the value of shared presence, saying, "There are few places on this planet where we can simply be together and be present."
While acknowledging that filming the curtain call might seem flattering, Blanchett specifically requested that those recording the show refrain from doing so. "For anyone who is filming the show, please don’t, because it spoils it for the next group of people who come in and are present with us," she stated, a sentiment that was met with applause.
Blanchett shares roles in the play with Nina Hoss. The production's synopsis describes "Electra" as the story of a daughter consumed by grief and rage, and "Persona" as a narrative where an actress falls silent, leading to an intense encounter that blurs the lines between self and role.
Blanchett's request aligns with a broader trend of performers asking for better audience etiquette. Actresses like Rosamund Pike and Cynthia Erivo have previously addressed audience members for using their phones during performances. In April, Erivo halted her West End performance of "Dracula" after noticing someone filming. Rosamund Pike, in June, called out an audience member for texting during the finale of her play "Inter Alia," explaining that such actions disrupt the performance and break the connection between cast and audience.
Other actors, including Amber Davies and Lesley Manville, have also spoken out against phone use and filming in theaters. Davies noted that filming during a performance of "Legally Blonde" was a distraction for the cast. Manville expressed frustration with audience members taking photos during curtain calls, suggesting that the experience should be absorbed rather than documented.