Spacey speaks up for local theatre

Today Kevin Spacey has criticised the BBC for airing programmes such as 'I'd Do Anything' and 'Any Dream Will Do'. He believes that they're just a 13-week advert for a musical and, as artistic director for the Old Vic theatre in London, Spacey says 'where's our 13 week programme?'

I can see where he's coming from, the BBC are meant to be impartial and in some way it is a product they are helping to sell.

As a member of The Festival Players, an amateur theatre group in Loughborough, we would love a 13-week programme on our group - which is now on it's 209th performance. As would every other theatre group in the country, amateur or professional.

The fact is, selling tickets for local theatre can be hard work unless it's a big budget musical, so I do like that these shows promote theatre in general and may encourage people see what's on in their local area. But why just musicals?

It seems to me like these shows are only looking for pretty/handsome/glamourous/all singing, all dancing people. I for one cannot sing, or dance, but I've found a group that puts on some wonderful plays without all that, and anyone is welcome! We want people to come and see us too.

So, if you like these shows, have a look at what is on locally and go and see something different - you might just enjoy it!

As an aside - we've got to give some PR brownie points to Spacey for speaking up and giving the Old Vic and it's current production some nice mentions in the process!!

Helen

p.s. If you're free and near Loughborough this week, come and see our production of Pride and Prejudice, at the Cope Auditorium from Tues 1st - Sat 5th April. Tickets available from www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk.

I know it's a sneaky plug but you'll love it I promise!