Cate Blanchett urges London theatre audience to stop filming

Actress Cate Blanchett has urged audiences at London’s National Theatre to stop recording performances during her play, ‘Electra/Persona’. Addressing the crowd during a curtain call at the Lyttelton Theatre, Blanchett expressed that while filming the curtain call can be flattering, recording the actual production spoils the experience for subsequent audience members.

Blanchett stated, “There are few places on this planet where we can simply be together and be present,” emphasizing the importance of being present in the moment. Her plea was met with warm applause from the attendees.

The production, written and directed by Benedict Andrews, is a fusion of Sophocles’ Greek tragedy ‘Electra’ and Ingmar Bergman’s 1996 film ‘Persona’. Blanchett stars alongside Nina Hoss, with the two actresses alternating roles each night based on a coin toss. The play is scheduled to run until October 10.