Manville Slams 'Insulting' Photo Takers in Theatre

Lesley Manville, a two-time Olivier Award winner, has voiced her strong disapproval of audience members taking photographs during theatre curtain calls. She characterizes this behavior as 'insulting' to actors on stage.

Manville, currently performing in a new adaptation of 'Les Liaisons Dangereuses' at the National Theatre, noted that the production has instituted a ban on all audience photography, both during performances and after.

She suggested that the trend of audience photography during curtain calls has recently emerged in London's West End, having previously been observed on Broadway in the United States. Manville urged attendees to 'preserve theatre' by momentarily setting aside digital devices.

However, Manville's remarks have drawn criticism, with some labeling her comments as 'out of touch' and 'pretentious.' This debate highlights differing views on audience behavior and the integration of technology in live performance spaces.