A fierce culture clash has erupted in the theatre world after Lesley Manville sparked outrage by branding audience members “insulting” for taking photos during curtain calls.
The Olivier Award-winning actress, 70, currently starring alongside Aidan Turner in Les Liaisons Dangereuses at the National Theatre, didn’t hold back as she voiced her frustration over the growing trend of phone use at the end of performances.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4, Lesley questioned why audiences couldn’t simply “let it live in their souls for five minutes,” arguing that people feel compelled to capture the moment just to prove they were there. She insisted the habit, which she says has filtered in from Broadway, is eroding the magic of live theatre.
She went further, urging audiences to “preserve theatre” and “take the digital out of it just for a moment,” adding bluntly: “Clap or don’t clap, but don’t just stick your phone in our face. I find it insulting.”
The production has now introduced announcements warning audiences not to take photos at any point — even during the final bow.
But her comments have triggered a fierce backlash online, with fans and fellow performers accusing her of being “out of touch” and even “a bit snobby.”
Many argued that snapping a quick photo at the end is harmless — and even meaningful. With ticket prices soaring, audiences say capturing the moment is part of the experience.
Strictly star Oti Mabuse defended fans, saying one photo could mean everything — especially for those who have saved up for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the theatre. She shared that keeping such memories can inspire dreams, particularly for young or underprivileged audiences.
Meanwhile, Denise Welch agreed that phones should stay away during performances — but supported photos at curtain call, calling them a way to celebrate the audience’s reaction and share special moments.
Others, like magician and TV personality Ben Hanlin, pointed out a more practical benefit: free promotion. He argued that social media posts from audiences can bring “thousands of eyeballs” to a show.
Fans echoed this sentiment, insisting that taking a photo at the end is no different from a standing ovation — a sign of appreciation, not disrespect.
However, Lesley wasn’t alone. Hannah Waddingham publicly backed her, declaring “Hear, hear,” while Marcia Cross agreed that theatre should remain a “sacred event.”
The debate shows no sign of slowing — raising a bigger question: in a digital age, can theatre truly remain untouched?
