ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Theater Snob Reflects on Audience Diversity and Emotional Experiences

opinion-review · 2026-07-20

A self-described theater snob recounts a season of attending performances at Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) and other venues in North Carolina, contrasting the emotional pull of Broadway musicals like 'Beauty and the Beast', 'The Outsiders', and 'The Notebook' with the subtle demands of experimental works such as 'Lost Lear' by Dan Colley and 'The 7th Voyage of Egon Tichy' by Joshua William Gelb. The author observes that audiences often prioritize social connection over the show itself, with conversations about personal lives dominating pre-show chatter. A couple at 'Egon Tichy' exemplified viewers motivated by the desire for a theater experience rather than a specific title. The piece argues against snobbish hierarchies of artistic value, advocating for welcoming all forms of engagement—from emotional catharsis to intellectual analysis—as valid paths to loving theater.

Key facts

  • The author attended five Broadway musicals and two plays at DPAC as part of a subscription.
  • The author teared up during 'Beauty and the Beast' in a theater with about 3,000 people.
  • Experimental works seen include 'Lost Lear' by Dan Colley and 'The 7th Voyage of Egon Tichy' by Joshua William Gelb.
  • 'Lost Lear' and 'The Notebook' both explore dementia, memory, love, and loss.
  • Two college students left 'Lost Lear' at intermission.
  • Audience members often share personal stories (e.g., wedding photos, open-heart surgery) before shows.
  • A couple at 'Egon Tichy' bought tickets without knowing the show, motivated by a desire for a theater experience.
  • The author advocates for celebrating diverse audience responses rather than ranking them.
  • The season concluded with the national tour of 'The Notebook'.
  • The author subscribes to DPAC as part of a personal cultural curriculum.

Entities

Artists

  • Dan Colley
  • Joshua William Gelb

Institutions

  • Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)
  • Carolina Performing Arts
  • NC State Live
  • Theater in Quarantine

Locations

  • North Carolina
  • Durham

Sources

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