Royal Exchange Cancels Play, Faces Accusations of Censorship
Equity, an acting union, has accused the Royal Exchange Theatre of promoting a 'growing culture of censorship' after canceling a modern retelling of A Midsummer Night's Dream. The cancellation was allegedly due to references to the Israel-Gaza conflict and trans rights. The theatre cited multiple challenges as reasons for the decision, but the move has drawn significant criticism and sparked discussions about artistic freedom and workplace dignity.
Equity, a prominent acting union, has expressed its frustration over what it calls a 'growing culture of censorship' following the Royal Exchange Theatre's cancellation of a five-week run of a modern retelling of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.
The play’s cancellation, reportedly due to references to the Israel-Gaza conflict and trans rights, has led to serious discussions between Equity and the theatre's management about artistic freedom and workplace dignity.
The Manchester-based theatre cited various challenges like injuries, a delayed technical week, and late-stage changes as reasons for the decision.
Further backlash has come from actors and observers who criticize the theatre's credibility.
The Royal Exchange, which receives significant funding from Arts Council England, remains under scrutiny for its actions.
The play’s cancellation, reportedly due to references to the Israel-Gaza conflict and trans rights, has led to serious discussions between Equity and the theatre's management about artistic freedom and workplace dignity.
The Manchester-based theatre cited various challenges like injuries, a delayed technical week, and late-stage changes as reasons for the decision.
Further backlash has come from actors and observers who criticize the theatre's credibility.
The Royal Exchange, which receives significant funding from Arts Council England, remains under scrutiny for its actions.
