Spacey criticizes ‘talent’ shows
March 31, 2008 – 12:45 pm | by Peekay
Actor and theatre director Kevin Spacey has criticised the BBC for airing theatre talent shows such as “Any Dream Will Do” and “I’d Do Anything” in detriment to the rest of the theatrical offerings.
Spacey said he felt the talent shows were “essentially a 13-week promotion for a musical – where’s our 13-week programme?” Spacey is the artistic director at the Old Vic theatre in London.
The BBC replied that its shows were not “unduly promotional”.”These Saturday night shows celebrate musical theatre generally, not just one West End show,” said Elaine Bedell, controller of entertainment commissioning.
“The BBC is committed to finding and supporting new musical talent as part of its longstanding commitment as a patron of the arts.”
