The Show Must Go On, with Dr. Kirsty Sedgman

We’ve seen the headlines: misbehaving, rude and disruptive audiences threatening and even assaulting staff and ruining performances for everyone.  What is going on? What happened to the unwritten rules of audience etiquette? From customer-facing industries to public transport and cafes, interpersonal altercations seem to be happening everywhere. 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kirsty Sedgman, author, lecturer and award-winning scholar specialising in audience research and cultural value from Bristol University, to discuss how audience behaviour has changed and the challenges faced by the industry in maintaining a welcoming and respectful atmosphere. 

Throughout the episode, we explore the intricate dynamics of theatre etiquette and what is acceptable behaviour; from phones and snacks to dress codes and applause protocol. It's clear that there are complex issues at play, including exclusionary expectations that need to be tackled.

We delve into the historical roots of silence and reverence in the theatre and discover how social structures and expectations have shaped our perceptions of reasonable behaviour. By clinging to tradition are we inadvertently excluding certain audiences, and perpetuating inequities?

Kirsty reminds us of the importance of making accommodations for individuals with different needs as well as for community outreach, and the need to ensure inclusivity and a sense of togetherness. 

Thank you to our incredible guest, Kirsty Sedgman, for joining us, and we can't wait to delve further into her book. Don't miss out on this enlightening and thought-provoking episode!

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RESOURCES

Thank you to our incredible guest, Kirsty Sedgman, Author, Lecturer and Doctor of Audiences. To learn more about Kirsty's work, visit: https://kirstysedgman.com/

You can also find her book, "On Being Unreasonable," in your favourite bookshops.

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