Theatre heads condemn abuse of power and harassment in entertainment industry

THE claims of sexual abuse that have swept Hollywood have reached the British theatre world, as the artistic directors of Shakespeare’s Globe and the National Theatre signed a statement condemning “abuses of power”.

It is the responsibility of the theatre industry to “create and nurture a culture where unacceptable behaviour is swiftly challenged and addressed”, according to the joint statement signed by the heads of 19 theatres including Emma Rice, of the Globe, and Rufus Norris, of the National Theatre.

They also condemned the sexual harassment that has been alleged against leading figures in the entertainment industry, including Harvey Weinstein, Roy Price and James Toback.

The letter states: “Following the reports and allegations of the last two weeks, first in America and, more recently, closer to home, we have come together to make clear that there can be no place for sexual harassment or abuse of power in our industry.

“We salute the bravery of everyone who calls out this abusive behaviour. We support a theatre culture that empowers people to speak up; a culture where abuse of power is challenged. We are committed to working together to ensure that theatre is a safe space for all, where everyone is respected and listened to. The Royal Court Theatre’s Day of Action on Saturday Oct 28 is one important part of this process.

“Together, we are developing further ways to support people to speak up and to hold others to account.

“It is the responsibility of the industry to create and nurture a culture where unacceptable behaviour is swiftly challenged and addressed... Everyone deserves to enjoy a happy, healthy and safe working environment. We will support you to speak out.”

Other signees include Rupert Goold, of the Almeida Theatre and Nicholas Hytner and Nick Starr, who recently set up the Bridge Theatre.