The theatrical industry has seen a rise in the number of actors and actresses from Hollywood, who have led various movies and plays. While Hollywood actors and actresses are no strangers to performing in theatre, the recent surge is more than likely due to stagnation in audience attendance.
It is a surefire way to get more people into the audience. Similar to the film industry, more people will be willing to watch a product if their favorite actor or actress is in it. If it works in film, why can’t it work in theatre?
That said, as great as this practice can be for business, it also can create a problem in the theatre industry if it continues at this pace. Constantly casting celebrity actors and actresses in theatre roles can have the unfortunate effect of alienating professionals already in the theatre industry.
Not every celebrity actor or actress has the years of training needed for a role. There are certainly some who have the skills for theatre, but many others do not. Unfortunately, casting celebrity actors and actresses in theatre productions is seen as a necessary evil due to the undeniable amount of money they bring in thanks to their influence.
This has the saddening effect of keeping talented actors and actresses within the theatre community from achieving a potentially career-changing role. That isn’t to say celebrity actors and actresses should be banned from theatre, these casting choices are a great way to fund the industry.
Instead, theatre companies could try casting celebrity actors in roles outside of the main lead. That isn’t to say celebrity actors should be regulated into background roles. Like in the film industry, actors and actresses can produce outstanding performances from roles outside of the protagonist.
This can still draw in audiences and bring attention to theatre actors and actresses in the industry.
