With rising gas prices, and an economy in decline, Americans are being forced to pinch pennies, and the fate of the American stage looks dim. Theatres across the country might be concerned that their loyal patrons won’t be able to spend precious gas and dish out thirty dollars to kick back and watch their favorite musicals.But are these their favorite musicals, and haven’t they seen that one already, and most importantly do they even like musicals? What age group is coming to the theatre? It’s the generation that grew up watching variety shows, a generation that just wants more of Ed Sullivan’s brand of wholesome singing, dancing entertainment. Sure they are the retired generate with extra money to spend, and with the economy and the price of gas people are cutting back, but are they really?
The price of television has increased about twenty dollars a month since the advent of HD TV, and if you pay an extra twenty you can get the basic movie channels. Another twenty will buy you the extra movie channels, and if you are willing to give up your first born you get to have a TiVo and nine hundred channels. So with gas prices and the economy what it is, why do I still know people that pay hundreds of dollars a month for television who have never stepped foot inside a theatre?
If the American theatre can’t beat reality television, then it really is doomed, but I don’t think it’s a fight theatre can’t win. If theatre companies want to start filling seats again they are going to have to stop producing tired, old musicals and start looking to newer work that appeals to younger generations.
July 20, 2008 at 8:05 pm |
The petrol price is not only a problem for audiences – it affects cast and crew too.
In Cape Town we have tried presenting newer plays and musicals, but often find that audiences don’t like paying money to see an unknown, potentially bum show. So we have to put on the sad old Agatha Christies to get bums on seats; which in turn finance the more adventurous, less popular shows.