Gemma Arterton: Audiences 'don't support new work'

Gemma Arterton, star of screen-to-stage musical Made in Dagenham, has said that audiences are unwilling to support new work, and blamed the size of the Adelphi Theatre for the show's early closure.

Adapted from the 2010 film, Made in Dagenham closes next month (11 April) after just six months in the West End.

Speaking to the Independent, Arterton said that "audiences love" the show, but that it's in "too big a theatre" – the Adelphi, which seats over 1400.

She added: "It's just the state of British theatre at the moment that people will happily see The Phantom of the Opera four times and pay maximum price but will not go and see a new show because they are scared and don't support new work."

Arterton, whose film credits include Quantum of Solace and Tamara Drewe, also modestly claimed that she wasn't a big enough star to sell Made in Dagenham.

"I remember saying: 'Oh God, I'm not going to sell out this theatre,'" she said. "I made a reservation for lunch today under my own name and they were, like, who? That suits me well."

Directed by Rupert Goold, Made in Dagenham centres on a strike by female machinists at the Ford Dagenham plant in 1968. Arterton plays strike leader Rita, the role created on screen by Sally Hawkins.

"I think our show would have lasted if it was in a slightly smaller theatre," Arterton added.

Made in Dagenham continues at the Adelphi until 11 April 2015

See Also: Editor's Blog: Made in Dagenham and the plight of the British musical