Timothée Chalamet has stirred up some controversy with a recent comment, suggesting that ballet and opera are on the decline. The 30-year-old Oscar-winning actor, during a conversation with Matthew McConaughey, casually remarked, “I don’t want to do something like ballet or opera or something like, ‘Even if no one cares about it anymore, let’s keep this alive.'”
Realizing he might have crossed a line, Chalamet added, “With all due respect to the ballet and opera people, we only lost 14 cents in the ratings.”
Despite Chalamet’s comments, which have drawn ire, there’s a kernel of truth. On shows like “The View,” some have pointed out that opera and ballet really do seem to be fading away. And let’s be honest, that 14 cents he referenced? It likely won’t translate into more interest in the arts.
Where Are the Supporters?
It’s telling that those who defend these art forms seldom show proof of their support. I mean, there are a lot of passionate fans out there, yet they can’t seem to summon a ticket to back it up.
It reminds me of New Yorkers mourning the closure of eateries they’ve never even visited: “How could this happen?” Simple. If you’re not actively engaging with ballet or opera, you’re indirectly contributing to their decline.
I admit my own part in this. I’ve never attended an opera. If push comes to shove, I might just get tagged with negligent homicide when it comes to the death of these art forms. When that fateful trial rolls around, I can picture a woman in tutu pointing fingers at me—and you as well.
And hey, my spouse is a dancer. Just to clarify: she’s not a stripper. Strippers cash in. Dancers? Not usually. Though there’s some notion of “Stripper Index,” indicating economic downturns.
Recently, for my birthday, I was treated to see the Lyon Opera Ballet at the New York City Center. Even though “opera” is in the name, it turned out to be a ballet performance—and it was a letdown. And, without getting too deep into details, there’s always a chance that a live show might fizzle, but that’s a risk I take. Last October, I went to a Paris Opera Ballet show at the same venue. It started strong… but then the quality dipped.
A Common Experience
I usually try to grab a meal either before or after such performances—drinks help too. Sometimes, those less-than-stellar shows are entertaining simply because of the conversations you have with friends or loved ones on the ride home.
I’ve got my receipts, so trust me when I say that when you look around at these events, there’s a noticeable number of empty seats or, frankly, an older audience. That is the reality.
If you’re not showing up to support ballet or opera, then you’re not doing your part. And yes, ticket prices can vary, but when stacked against popular performance arts, they’re not out of reach. Complaints are easy; it doesn’t cost anything to vent. What I suggest is this: put your money where your mouth is. Attend events, keep the conversation alive—and don’t forget to share proof of your engagement with these art forms.
