Reality TV and the Theater

“Today’s generation didn’t want to watch ancient actors reciting the same tired lines. They wanted to see themselves reflected onscreen – rude, raw, entitled. These kids needed to believe that they themselves were only one daring, controversial act away from being up on that screen themselves. ”

– Melissa Jo Peltier, Reality Boulevard

Within the past few years, Reality TV has become a staple in the homes of people not just in America but around the world. Many celebrities have given in to the undeniable effect of Reality TV, choosing to have their own lives played out in front of the lens. The term “Reality TV Star” has been coined and is now being uttered on the lips of millions. However one feels about Reality TV, this wave of entertainment seems to be here to stay.

While form of low art achieves wild popularity and brings in significant profits to networks, attendance to Broadway theater performances is also at an all-time high. Perhaps low art and high art can thrive simultaneously.

What do you think will be the lasting impact that Reality TV has on the Humanities and how we see ourselves as humans? Based on what you learned about the theater (which was not always considered high art) in this week’s readings, what may be some future similarities and differences between Reality TV and the theater?