With streaming services taking over the world of TV and cinema, is it possible that they may also carry a threat to theatre? The popularity of services such as the National Theatre at Home – the National Theatre’s pay-by-play streaming service – begs the question of whether the future of the stage lies in virtual platforms or if its anchoring in live performance will overcome the challenges of encroaching streaming trends.
In favour of streaming the stage – Bethany Donovan
During the COVID-19 pandemic, theatres around the world were forced to close their doors, leaving audiences without access to live performance. However, many theatre companies, including the National Theatre, quickly shifted to online platforms, providing virtual access to their productions. This shift not only ensured that the theatre world continued to thrive during a time of uncertainty but also made performances more accessible to a much broader audience. Following the pandemic, the way in which we access theatre has been revolutionised by online subscription services such as the National Theatre at Home, offer which offers audiences a convenient and flexible way to engage with high-quality productions from the comfort of their homes.
One of the most significant benefits of the National Theatre at Home is the increased accessibility to theatre. Traditionally, those living outside of major cities such as London would either have to travel long distances or wait for a touring production to experience excellent productions. Now, regardless of location, people from across the country can enjoy performances as they are streamed online.
One of the most significant benefits of the National Theatre at Home is the increased accessibility to theatre.
Another key advantage is the variety of shows always available. The National Theatre at Home offers a wide variety of productions, meaning there’s something for everyone. Viewers can explore different genres and discover new types of theatre they might not have considered before.
Additionally, the affordability of the platform is appealing, with the subscription currently priced at £9.99 per month. This lower cost opens doors for individuals who may have found live tickets too expensive, making it easier for them to experience high-quality theatre without breaking the bank. As well as this, the affordable subscription might encourage new viewers to explore theatre for the first time, potentially inspiring them to attend live performances in the future.
Moreover, online platforms have been instrumental in making theatre more inclusive. Many virtual productions incorporated features like subtitles and audio descriptions, making them accessible to people with hearing and visual impairments. This not only allowed for greater participation but also set a new standard for inclusivity within the arts.
Moreover, online platforms have been instrumental in making theatre more inclusive.
Sparked by the challenge posed during the COVID-19 lockdowns, online platforms like National Theatre at Home have transformed theatre accessibility, inclusivity, and affordability, ensuring that the arts remain available to all.
Against streaming the stage – Bella MacLusky
The pandemic almost saw the closure of the UK’s vibrant theatre scene, as social distancing prevented live performances, and further anxieties lowered audience attendance even after restrictions eased. While the resulting rise of theatre streaming services like Digital Theatre Plus and National Theatre at Home provided a way of keeping the industry alive initially, we are now seeing the long-term impact of streaming.
Despite efforts from theatres to move audiences back to in-person, the ease and versatility of streaming has continued to outcompete live performances, as audience numbers are still lower than pre-covid figures. Of course, online viewing is excellent for education, visibility, accessibility and affordability, but can it really create the same atmosphere as the theatre?
There is something to be said for the moment the crowd goes quiet, the dark room and complete immersion that theatre-going offers. Perhaps most vitally, you are cut off from the outside world, as phones are switched off leaving you alone with the actors on stage. Going to the theatre should be treated as a luxury, an excuse to dress-up and commit to enjoying yourself for the evening. Watching a recording simply cannot replicate this experience. The opportunity to check your phone, pause for a toilet break, or even watch a play over the span of a few evenings all deduct from the vivacity of theatre. Unfortunately, these losses cheapen the experience.
There is something to be said for the moment the crowd goes quiet, the dark room and complete immersion that theatre-going offers.
Moreover, theatres cannot solely function off the profits of streaming services, they rely on live attendance to fund the arts, and without this income the industry would be further compromised. Luckily, government tax relief and support is helping to keep the industry afloat.
Of course, online accessibility is incredibly important, as it allows people from lower-income backgrounds to access the arts, and helps connect people from rural areas to experiences they cannot easily reach. Equally, it is vital that we do not forget the magic of theatre-going, the community it creates, and the jobs it provides. While covid drove audiences to online escapism, the rise of screen addiction might even mean we turn back to in-person events, for a different type of distraction.
