Rosamund Pike paused after Inter Alia’s West End performance on May 30 to call out an audience member for texting, urging viewers to stay present because distractions can be felt by performers.
Rosamund Pike finished taking her final bows in London’s West End on Saturday night, May 30, and then stopped the show again—this time, to talk to the crowd.
The 47-year-old Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actress used her moment after Inter Alia to remind theatergoers that live performances only work when everyone is fully there. She had noticed someone using their phone during the performance and felt compelled to address it directly.
“I just wanted to say for anyone going to the theater, it’s a huge thing that we’re trying to give you,” Rosamund said. “I am trying to tell you a story, and I’m feeling you, and I hope you’re feeling me too.”
Then she got specific. Pointing toward a section of the audience, she described what she saw as the show went on.
“Somebody was texting in this part,” she said, pointing toward one section of the crowd. “Maybe it was very important. and maybe you’re a doctor. and you’re saving someone’s life. and I hope you are. But we do see these, we do feel them. I’ve got you. I feel like I’ve got to hold you all. so when I feel that and see it. it’s hard.”.
Pike’s plea landed with particular weight because Inter Alia isn’t staying in London. Later this year, she will make her Broadway debut in Inter Alia when the production moves to New York in November, with tickets on sale here.
Rosamund Pike Inter Alia Broadway debut West End performance theater etiquette texting during show phone use in theatre May 30