Been to the theatre recently? The likelihood is probably not especially if you’re not a middle aged, middle class, white, male. It can be argued that the theatre is just as elitist as ever, especially in the current economic climate. Going to the theatre can be an expensive and slightly daunting task. From the outset the theatre seems to have lost the battle to other art forms most evident is the cinema. However, the curtains haven’t yet closed on the theatre.
Theatre is a changing art form. It is continually developing and moving with the times. A great example is the Edinburgh festival, which displays so many inventive theatre performances that are using modern technology to appeal to a younger audience.
Theatre has unfortunately, and unfairly attained negative connotations due to its perceived old-fashioned style and continuous link to Shakespeare. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing as Shakespeare really comes alive on stage. However, it must be brought to attention that there are so many young exciting theatre companies gaining real momentum. These groups are moving away from the end-on theatre and using different staging techniques such as site-specific, where the performance takes place out of the theatre.
The techniques mentioned above are most certainly bringing theatre alive to a wider audience and although there is a long way to go, surely theatre will never cease to exist.
A Thinker's Guide to Nonsense 