Cate Blanchett Urges London Crowd to Put Down Cameras During Play

WHO:

Deadline - Cate Blanchett is the actress involved in the event.

Variety - The play "Electra/Persona" is written and directed by Benedict Andrews.

WHAT:

Deadline - Cate Blanchett asked the audience to put away their cellphones during her performance.

Variety - Blanchett stated that filming spoils the experience for future audience members.

WHERE:

Deadline - The event took place at the Lyttelton Theatre, part of the National Theatre in London.

WHEN:

Variety - The request to stop recording was made during a performance of "Electra/Persona" after the curtain call.

WHY:

Deadline - Blanchett emphasized the importance of being present together in the theater.

Variety - She expressed understanding of the audience's desire to film but highlighted that it detracts from the experience for others.

HOW:

Deadline - Blanchett made her request directly from the stage to the audience.

(UPDATED September 19, 2026 19:58 UTC)

During a recent performance of "Electra/Persona" at the Lyttelton Theatre in London, Cate Blanchett addressed the audience directly from the stage, asking them to put away their cellphones. She emphasized that while she understands the desire to film, doing so spoils the experience for future audience members and detracts from the shared moment in the theater. Blanchett's request came after the curtain call, highlighting her commitment to creating a focused and immersive environment for everyone present.