Carne Ross: 'The first rule of good theatre is 'Show, don't tell.' It applies to good political action as well.'

The first rule of good theatre is 'Show, don't tell.' It applies to good political action as well.

In the world of theatre, the adage "Show, don't tell" is a well-known rule that guides the creation of captivating and meaningful performances. According to Carne Ross, a former diplomat turned political activist, this rule also applies to effective political action. Simply put, the quote suggests that actions speak louder than words, both on the stage and in the political arena.At its essence, "Show, don't tell" urges artists to convey emotions, messages, and ideas through powerful visual and experiential means rather than relying solely on dialogue or explicit explanations. By allowing the audience to experience a story unfold before their eyes, the impact can be far more profound and memorable. This is not limited to theatre; the principle translates into various forms of artistic expression, such as film, literature, and even paintings.Bringing this concept into the realm of politics presents an interesting perspective. Politics, often regarded as a domain of rhetoric and discourse, heavily relies on the power of words to rally support and convey messages. However, Ross reminds us that action is equally if not more vital in inspiring change and creating a lasting impact. Political activists and leaders must strive to demonstrate their values and principles through tangible deeds rather than mere promises.By connecting theatre and politics through this fundamental concept, a deeper philosophical notion emerges – the idea of authenticity. In both realms, the challenge lies in striking a balance between effective communication and genuine expression of one's beliefs. When politicians merely articulate their intentions without backing them up with substantial actions, they risk losing credibility and failing to generate meaningful change. Similarly, when actors fail to embody their characters and rely solely on dialogue, the performance becomes hollow and unconvincing.The principle of "Show, don't tell" urges us to reflect on the gap that often exists between words and actions. It prompts us to question whether the messages we receive are aligned with the reality of what is being done. In the political sphere, it encourages us to critically analyze the promises made by our leaders and to hold them accountable for their deeds.The complexity arises when we consider the inherent challenges of political action. Unlike the controlled environment of the stage, the political landscape is full of uncertainties, compromises, and conflicting agendas. While it may not always be possible to achieve immediate and direct results from political actions, it is important to develop a sense of transparency and establish a track record of commitment to the causes we champion.Ultimately, the quote by Carne Ross serves as a reminder to politicians and activists that impactful engagement requires a careful balance between rhetoric and action. It encourages us to consider the power of demonstrating our values and principles through our deeds rather than relying solely on persuasive language. By embracing the principles of "Show, don't tell," we can strive for a political landscape that is not only filled with passionate speeches, but also holds a deep commitment to affecting positive change.In a world where words too often fall empty, actions will always speak louder. As we navigate the intricate dynamics of politics, let us remember the influence of a well-executed performance, of demonstrating our dedication through tangible actions. By embracing the ethos of "Show, don't tell," we lay the foundation for a more authentic, accountable, and effective political landscape that echoes the enduring magic of the theatre.