Unions Call for UK Theater Alcohol Restrictions Amid Rising Staff Abuse
London - Theatre unions are urging UK venues to limit or ban at-seat alcohol sales following a surge in disruptive and abusive behavior from audience members, putting staff at risk. The calls come as reports of violent incidents and harassment at performances across the country continue to surface, prompting concerns for the safety and wellbeing of theatre workers.
The issue has escalated since the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, with venues reporting an increase in incidents ranging from excessive noise and singing to physical altercations. Unions argue that readily available alcohol exacerbates these problems, creating a hostile surroundings for both performers and staff. This move aims to protect theatre employees who are increasingly facing “unacceptable abuse” while simply trying to ensure audiences enjoy performances.
Comedian Dani Johns highlighted the post-lockdown shift in audience behaviour in The Guardian in April 2022, noting an uptick in abuse and harassment. West End actor Marisha Wallace described “wild” scenes during performances of Dreamgirls, including audience fights that necessitated increased security and signage reminding patrons not to sing or dance.
More serious incidents have included police being called to Curve in Leicester in 2023 after a staff member was assaulted. That same year, a performance of The Bodyguard at the Palace Theatre in Manchester was halted due to “unprecedented levels of violence” directed at staff attempting to address an audience member singing loudly. Police were also involved in that incident.
Disruptive behaviour has also been reported during productions of bat Out of Hell and The Drifters Girl in London, and Jersey Boys in Edinburgh. The Royal Opera House issued a lifetime ban in November 2022 to an individual who heckled a child singer. Reports from Popbitch and comedian Tom Houghton have also detailed instances of couples engaging in sexual activity during performances.
The unions’ push for change reflects a growing concern that the current environment is unsustainable and that proactive measures are needed to ensure the safety and respect of those working in the theatre industry. They hope that limiting alcohol access will contribute to a more positive and secure experience for everyone involved.
