Dame Judi Dench: 'Avoid Theater if Sensitive to Trigger Warnings'

Legendary actress Dame Judi Dench has questioned the necessity of trigger warnings in theater productions, suggesting that patrons with sensitive natures might steer clear of the entire experience. Her remarks join a growing chorus of thespians expressing skepticism towards the practice.

In a recent interview with "Radio Times" magazine, Oscar-winning actress Dame Judi Dench shared her opinion on the use of trigger warnings in theater productions, expressing a nuanced perspective that has sparked discussion within the entertainment industry.

Dench began by acknowledging the rationale behind trigger warnings, recognizing their potential to prepare audiences for potentially disturbing content. However, she questioned whether such advisories ultimately undermine the transformative power of theater.

"I can see why they exist, and it is preparing people, I suppose, but if you’re that sensitive, don’t go to the theater, because you could be very shocked," Dench remarked.

Her comments echo the sentiments expressed by fellow actors Matt Smith and Ralph Fiennes, who have also voiced their reservations about trigger warnings. Fiennes, in particular, emphasized the role of shock and surprise as essential elements of the theatrical experience.

"I think we didn’t use to have trigger warnings. I mean, they are very disturbing scenes in ‘Macbeth,’ terrible murders and things… the impact of theater should be that you’re shocked and you should be disturbed. I don’t think you should be prepared for these things and when I was young, [we] never had trigger warnings for shows," Fiennes stated.

Dench expanded on her stance, arguing that removing the element of surprise from theater diminishes its potential to provoke introspection and emotional resonance.

"Why go to the theater if you're going to be warned about things that are in the play? Isn’t the whole business of going to the theater about seeing something that you can be excited, surprised, or stimulated by?" she questioned.

She compared the notion of trigger warnings to revealing the outcome of a classic tragedy like "King Lear" in advance, robbing audiences of the profound emotional impact intended by the playwright.

Dench's perspective aligns with that of Ian McKellan, who famously played Gandalf in "Lord of the Rings." McKellan expressed his preference for being surprised by unexpected elements on stage, arguing that such moments add to the vibrancy and engagement of theater.

"The audience is warned, ‘there is a loud noise and at one point, there are flashing lights,' ‘there is reference to smoking,' ‘there is reference to bereavement’... I like to be surprised by loud noises and outrageous behavior on stage," McKellan remarked.

Dench's position has sparked a broader discussion about the role of trigger warnings in art and entertainment. While some argue that such advisories are essential for audience safety and well-being, others contend that they may stifle creativity and limit the potential for transformative experiences.

Ultimately, the question of trigger warnings remains a complex one without easy answers. As the debate continues, the opinions of seasoned performers like Dame Judi Dench and her peers offer valuable insights into the delicate balance between artistic freedom and audience sensitivity.