today on ST. :embrass:
Why double standards on taking photos at Esplanade?
I WAS at the Esplanade last Friday evening to see the musical Cats. During the intermission, some members of the cast, dressed in cat costumes, came off stage and mingled with the audience, many of whom were children. Many cast members posed for photographs with them. This was not an isolated occurrence throughout the theatre area.
I thought this was a unique part of the overall experience.
However, when I was taking a photo of a few cast members with some of the audience, an usher came up to me and curtly told me not to take photos.
My surprised and automatic response was: 'Everyone else is doing it.' But she raised her voice and said: 'No flash.' I was bewildered and a little upset at her response.
I have a few questions:
- Is the Esplanade management practising double standards? Although a sign outside the theatre said 'no photography or video recording', certain members of the audience were allowed to do so, particularly those in more exclusive seating.
- Is that particular Esplanade usher, among others, inadequately trained? Why did she address patrons in such a rude manner without sufficient explanation?
- Is photography allowed during the intermission or after some performances?
- If it is allowed, why does the use of flash during the intermission matter? And again, why are some people allowed to do so but others prohibited?
I hope my experience at the Esplanade will not be marred in this fashion in future. There is little reason to spend a considerable sum to have an otherwise pleasant performance spoilt by such an incident.
Do Su Ern