Whether it's trying to convince someone to come see a play or audition for one, all of us theatre geeks have struggled with introducing our friends, families, or complete strangers to the marvelous world of theatre. The excuses they have come up with make me wonder how ridiculous they would sound if they were talking about movies. If you are one of these people who refuse to participate even as a viewer in theatre, I encourage you to read on, because here are six ways you sound ridiculous for refusing to see a play.
1. "I didn't like 'Garden State,' therefore I don't like movies."
OK, so you didn't like "Our Town." We don't blame you, but that doesn't mean you are incapable of liking all theatre in general. From Shakespeare to 10-minute plays to multimedia productions, there is a variety of shows for someone to enjoy in the 21st century.
2. "Ten dollars to see a movie? Nobody would ever waste money on that!"
Not every play costs $30 to see. You can even score deals on Broadway. Depending on your local theatre community, you can find good-quality shows for $10 or less, or even for free. Pro-tip: Look for college and independent theatre productions. If you feel like complaining about a $15 play ticket, remember that the next time you want to go to a movie theater.
3. "I'd rather work on homework than see [critically-acclaimed film starring a famous and award-winning actor] at [local movie theater]."
What's better than seeing your favorite movie star on the big screen? Seeing them live. Sometimes it's worth shelling out the extra money to see them perform in person. Remember that actors will work onstage, as well. Look to your local theaters to see if any stage or film stars will be stopping there as a part of a national tour.
4. "Yeah, my friend is starring in that movie, but I'm not going to support her and see it because I just don't want to."
You watched that crappy 20-minute independent movie your friend appeared in with that somewhat recognizable actor from that web series you finished two years ago, so why not check out the popular stage production your other friend is starring in?
5. "I can't stand movies because I hate musicals."
Because "Moulin Rouge" and "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog" are movies, you probably think that all movies are musicals. Wait... You don't think that? Then why do you apply that to all of theatre? While I still cannot fathom why people don't like musicals, some plays are as straight (non-musical) as can be.
6. "I didn't like 'Glee,' so I don't think I'll like movies."
I applaud "Glee" for introducing thousands of people to the stage, but what you see on the television screen isn't necessary what plays (or performers, for the most part) are like. Again, not all plays have song-and-dance numbers. There are dramas like "A Streetcar Named Desire" (or really anything by Tennessee Williams), wacky comedies such as "The Idiots Karamazov," and everything in between. Just like movies.
Even though theatre has been around for thousands of years, its relevancy and format has managed to keep up with the times. There is something about plays, whether it's their timelessness or usage of modern technology, that keeps people coming. Radio, television, and films may have built some obstacles that have affected plays from drawing in audiences, but the theatre is still alive. Explore your love for stories and find a theatrical performance near you.
