Do we need a more diverse pool of critics?

Convener: Amardeep Sohi  @AmardeepSohi1

Participants: George Mann

Summary of discussion, conclusions and/or recommendations:

We need to see a diversity of opinion and criticism if we are to reach the widest audience possible.

Discussion threw up some interesting points about:

The current pool is made up of white middle class critics.

Do we receive criticism from an ethnic perspective?

Why are there are no Black or Asian theatre critics?

Shouldn’t we be making the most of our cultural diversity?

Is there anyone to blame?

Are we making theatre less accessible if the same people are writing about it?

What role do national newspapers play in giving a platform to new voices?