Will London Theater Suffer During the Olympics?
The Olympics are headed to the summer this summer and the city has already been busy celebrating by hosting events and having the Olympic circles drift through the city along the Thames River. But among the celebration the Olympics have some worried, namely the theater community. Of course, London is notorious for its world-class theater, elite performances, and only the best shows running. But with an event that could possibly even be bigger than London theater, the arts community has already had to fight hard in the city to keep its head above water.
The biggest fight came when it was merely suggested that many shows could be shut down altogether during the two weeks the Olympics are in town from July 27 — August 12. While Nica Burns, producer at West End, was very happy that the city decided against that decision, she also says, “There’s a fear factor — you don’t know what it’s going to be like. None of us in London theater have experienced London during the Olympics. Neither have the people who run the transport system or the city as a whole.”
But transportation won’t be a problem, as the theaters are all within close walking distance to each other. And, Stephen Daldry, executive producer of the Olympic opening and closing ceremonies, says that showcasing one of the city’s art won’t be one, either. “We’re here to celebrate the sport, we’re here to celebrate the culture — and to celebrate London. It’s a great stage and it’s going to be all around us.” That should help, as well as the promise from London authorities saying that they’ve already taken steps to ensure that information on all of London’s wonderful tourist attractions — including those not involving sports — are provided for all who will be in the city.
And the theater community is already working their name, sound, and song into many Olympic events. On Wednesday in an event to promote the 100-day countdown to the Olympics, West End performers gathered in Trafalgar Square to dance, perform, and kick off the celebration. Get your Olympics tickets today!
Categorized in: Sports