If lack of audience interest was the primary reason tech awards are overlooked, the same logic should hold true for awards for straight plays. The television audience, for the most part, has never heard of any of the plays or the actors and doesn't care who wins those awards. If they disappeared from the telecast, I doubt it would have any effect on the ratings. The truth is that most of the television audience tunes in to see singing and dancing, some reality TV star as a presenter and a CBS sitcom star as the host. And more and more, the telecast is geared to that audience. The difference is that the lack of respect for the tech side extends beyond the television executives and into the acting community as well.
I think it's a shame. Years ago, when they first started separating the awards, the technical awards were telecast on PBS, along with some fascinating footage of the actual designs of the nominees, with interviews about the process. It was very well done and gave these artists the recognition and respect they deserved, even if it was relegated to a "lesser" network. I'd love to see a return to that format, because it elevates the presentation to something more than just a variety show.
I do not make my living in the arts. I'm an engineer by trade. For me, the convergence of color and light and materials and movement and sound that creates the backdrop for these performances is a work of art. In my eyes, when it is done right, it can be as breathtaking as the most eloquent soliloquy delivered by the finest actor. It would be wonderful if these professionals got the recognition they deserved.
Updated On: 4/24/12 at 09:57 PM
.jpg?format=auto&width=365)
