Welcome to the next in a series celebrating female colleagues who engage with theatre as critics, reviewers, bloggers or content creators. I am using ‘theatre’ to encompass all live arts performances, and ‘reviewer’ to cover all those who add commentary on what they see.
The master list is at: https://loureviews.blog/spotlight-on-female-theatre-reviewers-bloggers-critics-and-content-creators/
If you would like to be profiled as part of this project, please get in touch.
Today, I turn my attention to Rachel of TheatreGenics.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you came to be writing or creating content about theatre?
So, I have been a huge fan of theatre for the majority of my life. My grandparents got me into it from a very young age, routinely going and making memories from all the trips they took me on.
I’ve never been one to take part in it, never wanted to be on stage (in fact, it terrifies me), but to be able to share my thoughts on everything I see and the events I attend is my version of a creative output.
Getting to write down my thoughts on brand new shows, exploring new venues, and attending events, it all makes me so happy. It’s the best hobby a theatre lover can have!
If you have your own platform, when did it start, and how did you come up with the name? If you write for one or many platforms, which was the first and how did you become involved with it?
I created TheatreGenics back in 2022, and my Etsy in 2023. The focus itself is my Instagram, where I predominantly create graphics and reels. The name itself comes from the love for theatre being in my DNA.
As I mentioned before, my grandparents introduced me, my parents regularly go (my mother almost as much as me), and with my dad and uncle both being musicians, they regularly took me into the pit to experience theatre from behind the scenes.
What kind of shows do you cover, and in which geographical areas?
Predominantly West End and off-West End with the occasional tour (usually at Wimbledon).
How would you describe yourself (reviewer, critic, content creator, YouTuber, influencer, other)?
Blogger cum content creator.
Why do you continue to engage with theatre?
With continuous financial cuts, AI development and the arts being a final thought for most, I think optimising social media to promote these fantastic shows and the impact they have on audiences – that’s why I do it.
What’s the one thing that would make the theatre reviewing/content creating space easier for you personally, and/or for your platform?
Pricing accessibility. I make it a matter to purchase all my tickets personally, and as commonly argued, the price of tickets is only getting increasingly expensive.
Not only is it for myself, but how can I promote a show that the average Joe wouldn’t be able to afford?
Do you have a favourite show – and any you particularly dislike(d)?
I am a massive fan of Operation Mincemeat, so much so that I have a tattoo on my arm for it! Currently sitting at 58 viewings, including a trip to Broadway for it.
On the other hand, there are a couple of shows that I really disliked. I will never be a fan of Grease, and after seeing the 2022 production, that was solidified. I also really did not like We Will Rock You.
The theatre commentary space is wide and diverse – is there any other female reviewer/content creator you would recommend, and why?
When it comes to theatre, I adore stageyrebecca. We share a lot of the same interests (particularly The Producers) so I always enjoy coming across her videos. I’m friends with Nish, who runs LettersToJuly, an independent business owner and theatre content creator. I will always be in awe at what she creates, and I love her editing style!
What’s the biggest change you have noticed in the theatre space since you started contributing to it?
I think voices have become more vocal about controversial opinions. Theatre etiquette is being discussed more, and I’m very much in favour of this!
People are less scared to discuss such controversial hot takes, and I adore seeing people comment whether they agree/disagree, followed by a careful debate following. You can really see people are passionate about what they’re talking about!
And which social networks are you most active on? If you are not on any, what is your opinion of their place in theatre reviewing/content creation?
Predominantly Instagram and TikTok, but I keep updated on my personal X and Facebook accounts as well.
Can you pinpoint one of your best reviews, features, or videos?
My Paddington opening night video did particularly well. To be honest, most of my Paddington content goes down well – and I adore that bear, so I’m glad he’s getting all the attention!
On TikTok, I’ve made a couple of videos regarding shows that I wouldn’t see, and the controversy usually brings up conversations.
How can people contact you who want to promote a show?
They can either send me a direct message on Instagram, or via email, which is also tagged on my Instagram!
Thank you, Rachel!