Whilst many may have predicted that the advent of cinema would herald the beginning of the end of theatre, the evidence has demonstrated that the stage continues to endure. Indeed, in many of the metropolitan areas of the world, theater has undergone something of a resurgence with actors increasing seeing the live format as a way of making their mark in the profession. In recent interviews the likes of Dame Judy Dench, Jude Law and James McAvoy have professed their love for theater and the belief that it offers something different to life as an on-screen actor. Whilst it is undeniable that there is more money and glamor to go with life in Holywood, the self-satisfaction that thespians have in appearing in a live production goes a long way in keeping many big-name actors on the stage.
As such it follows that in many big cities around the world, theater is thriving. In London haytheatre.com and New York, visitors will flock to see productions that may feature actors who are also appearing in a blockbuster on the silver screen that week. Away from these areas of high population, are regional theaters in such a strong position?
The answer is often mixed. Whilst a number of theater companies continue to enjoy good reputations, keeping their loyal fan base and encouraging new generations to become regular theater-goers; sadly it is true that the theater has had, on occasion, a battle to attract a younger audience. There is no doubt that theater cannot compete with cinema when it comes to pricing – it is just not feasible for theater halls to match the fiercely competitive pricing that film houses can pursue. However, in recent years there are encouraging signs that demonstrate theater bosses may be finding the right formula to attract first-timers to watch plays.
Often, heavily discounted tickets can be purchased by those under the age of 26. Couple this with the fact that a trip to the theater can make for a pleasant night out – at the interval viewers can order a glass of wine to enjoy before heading back to the auditorium – and it is easy to see how those who may have initially been put off, decide to return again and again.
One such theater that has noticed some success in gaining a new younger audience is the Pitlochry Festival Theater in Perthshire, Scotland. Known as the ‘theater in the hills’ it has long been successful and consistently tempts people back to Highland Perthshire year on year to enjoy ‘6 plays in 6 days’ during the summer season. The theater has introduced an annual musical amongst its repertoire that has been a huge success as well as discounted tickets for younger members of the audience. It is a fantastic place to visit given its location in a beautiful part of Scotland. In addition the qualities of the productions are consistently excellent. For example, it is customary at the start of each play for the audience to break in to a round of applause given the authenticity of the sets and costumes created at Pitlochry.
Furthermore there is an excellent restaurant at the theater and groups can enjoy a 3-course meal before an evening performance followed by a chat with some of the actors at the bar after the play if you are lucky! It is worth noting that the actors contracted at Pitlochry are often very experienced and may even have appeared in one or two Hollywood productions themselves – so you may yet experience a little of the glamor of the cinema at this theater…
If visiting Pitlochry to watch a play at the famous Pitlochry Festival Theater there are a number of excellent Pitlochry hotels on offer. Many of the hotels in Pitlochry understand their visitors will want to watch a number of different plays and as such can offer early dining. Owners.