A study for the Arts Council of England finds that traditional “text-based” drama is rapidly losing its appeal to modern audiences. “A funding review of 50 theatres, mainly in the provinces but including some noted London venues outside the West End, has found an alarming decline in the popularity of conventional plays. The review suggests that ‘live theatre’, such as laser, acrobatic and video spectacles, have wider appeal and should be embraced by theatres as a condition of receiving public grants.” – The Telegraph (UK)