I think theatre must be an event, an experience, not compete with cinema. When people are able to download stories on Netflix, you need to give them a good reason to jump into the car and drive two hours. It has to be something you can only see in the theatre, and it has to be worth it.

The quote "I think theatre must be an event, an experience, not compete with cinema. When people are able to download stories on Netflix, you need to give them a good reason to jump into the car and drive two hours. It has to be something you can only see in the theatre, and it has to be worth it" by Robert Lepage highlights the evolving role of theatre in a world dominated by digital entertainment. Lepage, a renowned Canadian director and playwright, argues that in order to attract modern audiences, theatre must offer something unique—an experience that cannot be replicated by streaming platforms like Netflix. His statement calls for the theatre to emphasize live performance, creating an immersive, one-of-a-kind event that draws people out of their homes and into the theatre.

At its core, the quote emphasizes the need for theatre to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of entertainment. With the rise of on-demand media, where audiences can access films and shows from the comfort of their homes, traditional theatre faces increased competition. Lepage suggests that rather than trying to compete with cinema or television, theatre must focus on its distinct strengths, such as live performance, the collective atmosphere, and the immediacy of being part of a real-time experience. It is not enough for theatre to be simply another form of storytelling—it must be an event that justifies the time and effort required to attend.

The phrase "it has to be something you can only see in the theatre" underscores Lepage's belief that the value of theatre lies in its exclusivity. Unlike films, which can be streamed at any time, the experience of watching a play is unique to that particular moment and setting. The live nature of theatre, with its energy, spontaneity, and interaction between performers and the audience, cannot be fully replicated by digital platforms. Lepage emphasizes that theatre must capitalize on these aspects to create something irreplaceable and truly memorable.

Robert Lepage is known for his innovative approach to theatre and his exploration of the boundaries between art forms. His quote reflects his commitment to ensuring that theatre remains a vibrant, dynamic part of the cultural landscape in the digital age. It serves as both a call to action for theatre practitioners and a reminder to audiences that live theatre offers a unique value that digital platforms cannot replace.