West End Debate: Actor Lesley Manville Slams Curtain Call Photos

Tensions rise as some embrace digital memories while others defend theatre's sacred rituals.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:20am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of glittering sequins and shimmering velvet textures, captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to create a glamorous, high-fashion aesthetic that conceptually represents the debate over capturing theatrical moments digitally.The debate over curtain call photos highlights the tension between preserving theatre's sacred rituals and embracing digital engagement.Today in Miami

Acclaimed actor Lesley Manville has sparked a debate in the West End theatre community by criticizing audience members for taking photos during curtain calls. While some see the practice as a way to capture cherished memories, Manville and others argue it disrupts the sacred exchange between performers and the audience. This clash highlights the broader tension between tradition and the digital age as cultural experiences evolve.

Why it matters

The curtain call debate reflects a larger conversation about how technology is reshaping our engagement with the arts. As more people seek to document their experiences, some art forms struggle to preserve the authenticity of unmediated moments. This issue extends beyond theatre to museums, concerts, and even live sports, as institutions grapple with balancing tradition and modern expectations.

The details

Manville, currently starring in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, called out theatregoers for taking photos during curtain calls, labeling the practice as 'insulting' and urging audiences to 'take the digital out of it for just a moment.' This sparked a response from Oti Mabuse, a former Strictly Come Dancing star, who argued that a photo can be a cherished memory, especially given the high cost of theatre tickets. Some productions, like the musical Six, actively encourage audience filming during curtain calls, suggesting the practice can be a form of engagement and promotion.

  • Manville's comments were made during her current run in Les Liaisons Dangereuses in the West End.

The players

Lesley Manville

An Olivier Award-winning actor currently starring in Les Liaisons Dangereuses in the West End.

Oti Mabuse

A former Strictly Come Dancing star who argued that photos can be cherished memories for audience members.

Denise Welch

A theatre performer who argued that photos can amplify the theatre experience and promote shows.

Ali McGregor

A theatre performer who also argued that photos can be a form of audience engagement and promotion.

The musical Six

A production that actively encourages audience filming during curtain calls.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must take the digital out of it for just a moment.”

— Lesley Manville, Actor

“A photo can be a cherished memory, especially given the high cost of theatre tickets.”

— Oti Mabuse, Former Strictly Come Dancing star

The takeaway

This debate highlights the broader cultural shift as experiences are increasingly validated through their digital footprint. While some see photos as a way to preserve memories and promote the arts, others view the practice as a disruption of theatre's sacred rituals. As technology continues to reshape cultural engagement, finding the right balance between tradition and evolution will be an ongoing challenge for the theatre community and beyond.