If you're planning on going to see Rufus Wainwright in Dublin's new Grand Canal Theatre next Wednesday April 28th, don't applaud.
The phenomenally talented Canadian songwriter has gotten very serious of late, and recently told The Guardian that he thinks "We could all be a bit more elitist". By the sounds of things, this notion is something he wants to carry through to his live show, and has asked that audiences on his UK tour refrain from clapping so that he can perform undisturbed during the first half of his show.
A spokesperson made the following statement:
"Rufus has asked us to pass on this message to everyone attending his shows on the tour. The first part of the program will be performed as a song cycle with visuals by Douglas Gordon. During the first set, Rufus has asked that you please do not applaud until after he has left the stage. His exit is part of the piece. After a brief intermission, Rufus will return for the second part of the show during which you may applaud to your heart's content."
Only mildly pretentious Rufus, only mildly.
