Let’s be honest—when you hear the word “theatre,” do you picture something outdated, boring, or just not for you? Well, it’s time to smash those stereotypes. Theatre isn’t just Shakespeare and old-school dramas; it’s a living, breathing, electrifying experience that can be as thrilling as your favorite Netflix series or viral TikTok trend. And guess what? Social media is making it even more accessible, interactive, and—yes—cool.
Theatre Meets Social Media: A Match Made in Creative Heaven
Imagine getting backstage access to your favorite plays, watching actors break character in hilarious bloopers, or even influencing a storyline with your own ideas. Theatres are tapping into platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to break the fourth wall and bring the magic straight to your screen. With influencers, content creators, and theatre enthusiasts leading the way, the performing arts are now reaching a whole new audience—YOU.
Influencers: The New Theatre Advocates
Influencers aren’t just about fashion hauls and dance challenges; they’re also powerful voices in the cultural world. Many theatres are collaborating with digital creators who can break down complex plays, give you a sneak peek at upcoming performances, and even show how theatre is connected to music, gaming, and pop culture. Ever seen a TikTok breakdown of how “Hamilton” changed musical theatre? That’s the kind of content that makes theatre exciting and relevant to younger audiences.
Engaging, Interactive, and Made for You
Social media isn’t just about consuming content—it’s about participation. Theatres are hosting live Q&A sessions, interactive polls, and even virtual playwriting contests. Ever wanted to rewrite a scene from a play with your own twist? Now’s your chance. Plus, online theatre communities are growing, where you can chat with actors, directors, and fellow theatre lovers from around the world.
Theatre is for Everyone (Yes, Even You)
Think theatre isn’t your thing? Maybe you just haven’t found the right show yet. There’s something for everyone—dark thrillers, laugh-out-loud comedies, mind-blowing musicals, and experimental performances that blend VR, live music, and movement. Social media gives you the perfect way to explore these options, discover hidden gems, and even grab exclusive discounts for live performances.
The Takeaway? Give Theatre a Chance
If you love stories, creativity, and powerful performances, theatre is absolutely worth exploring. And thanks to social media, it’s easier than ever to dive into this world without ever feeling like an outsider. So, follow a theatre account, check out a live stream, or join a theatre meme group—who knows, you might just find your new obsession.
The photographs used in this article are from the Alytus City Theatre’s performance “FIKCIJA made in social media,” a technology-enhanced audiovisual production in an unconventional space, directed by Rūta Būnikytė. Photography by Miško Motė.