L&D | Brian Cox defends the use of 'celebrities' in West End plays - but space needs to be made for new talent

Making way for new talent is one the best things experienced professionals can do for their peers. That doesn’t necessarily mean that those with more experience, who are typically some of the eldest workers, shouldn’t be given opportunities. But rather, younger players are given the chance to take on managerial roles and have a moment in the spotlight every now and then.

This idea was bought into question by actor Brian Cox, who earlier this year jumped to the defense of extremely famous actors performing in the West End.

Responding to an interview question about how celebrity-status actors, like himself and co-star Patricia Clarkson, were driving up the prices of play tickets, he said: “It depends what you mean by celebrity. It’s people who’ve (earned) their spurs as actors. I’ve done a fair amount over the years in theatre and so had she (Clarkson).”

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Indeed, in the West End, many A and B list celebrities star in big productions and smaller plays. Although this makes the production more exciting, attractive to punters, and also means the acting in the show is the best it can be, it also means that ticket prices are driven up and roles that would have otherwise been given to up and coming actors, are instead given to far more experienced or famous ones.