THEATRE legend Dame Arlene Phillips has told Alison Hammond ‘you have no idea what it’s like for performers’ after the TV host apologised for her comments on rowdy theatre audiences.
This Morning’s Alison backtracked following a discussion on the ITV show about crowd chaos during a performance of The Bodyguard in Manchester.
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Cops were called to the Palace Theatre as audience members’ singing in the crowd drowned out performers.
Initially, Alison was stunned by the escalation and ruled out seeing the show in the future.
However, she changed her mind yesterday after angry viewers pointed out how disrespectful the audience had actually been and the impact it had on theatre performers and staff.
Responding to Alison’s apology, Arlene wrote on Twitter: “Alison thank you for your apology but I would just like to say , you have no idea what it is really like for those performers in the shows where the songs are popular hits and certain members of the audience feel entitled to join in.
“Performers are unsure what to do. They are not trained when audiences get out of control and arguing with each other. It’s so distressing. Let’s hope this behaviour stops and normality returns.”
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Alison, co-host Dermot O’Leary, Nick Ferrari and Vanessa Feltz discussed if people should be allowed to sing at theatres during Wednesday’s instalment of This Morning.
During the debate, Alison said: “I can’t believe it. I’d be devastated. I’m not even going to go to that show now.”
Viewers weren’t happy and yesterday she issued an apology on Twitter and Instagram.
Alison said: “After reflection and the comments I made on Wednesday’s show I want to apologise to anyone who I offended especially the incredibly talented theatre performers, who I have the upmost respect for.
“I had no idea the level of disruption audiences were causing and tried to make light of the topic on Wednesday’s show, and for that I’m truly sorry.
“I am a great supporter of theatre and the arts and would never sing at the top of my lungs at any performance, I was wrong in what I said and I’ve given this a lot of thought over the past few days and believe I was wrong.
“On Thursday evening I attended a performance of the GBBO the musical which I absolutely loved and gave a standing ovation, theatre is a magical experience for me and my family.
“I want to use my platform for good as always and want to stand up with the performers, front of house and theatre staff especially after seeing what happened at The Bodyguard in Manchester which has made me sick to my stomach.”
“Once again I am truly sorry but trust me I will do better in the future.”
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