Theater Show Bum Bum Train Faces Controversy Over High-Profile Attendees
Following a recent performance of the popular theater show Bum Bum Train, creators Bond and Lloyd have found themselves addressing concerns about the production’s approach to inclusivity, especially when it comes to high-profile figures in attendance.
In an email sent to volunteers who participated in the performance, Bond and Lloyd emphasized the show’s foundation of empathy and its ability to inspire meaningful change, even in unlikely individuals. This message comes in the wake of attendees like Joshua Kushner, a billionaire venture capitalist and brother of President Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, raising eyebrows.
The use of volunteers in Bum Bum Train has been a point of contention, with the UK actors’ union Equity expressing opposition to the practice. Despite this, the creators have defended their decision, noting that they have only recently started taking a wage themselves, along with approximately 20 production staff members.
Bond and Lloyd have also been transparent about the show’s financial model, which relies on selling higher-priced tickets to private buyers in order to offset the cost of public tickets. Without the use of volunteers, they estimate that each ticket would cost a staggering $8,000.
As Bum Bum Train continues to navigate these controversies, it remains a unique and thought-provoking theatrical experience that aims to connect with audiences from all walks of life.