Joani Walsh was attacked by another audience member after a performance at Hampstead Theatre, leading to feelings of shock and neglect. Despite expressing her concerns after being slapped, she was informed by a duty manager that the attacker had ADHD, as though it might justify the aggression. Joani experienced a lack of immediate support from staff, who delayed calling police. This incident highlights issues of personal safety in public spaces and the importance of sensitive handling of such situations by theater staff.
"You don't expect that to happen in the theatre. You let those guards down and you let yourself be lost in the moment and immerse yourself in another world."
"The duty manager told her the incident may have been linked to a disability, asking if this would affect how she wished to proceed."
"She put her arms out as the audience was leaving almost in a 'come on, then' gesture you see when aggressive men are squaring up for a fight."
"When you're slapped somewhere where you feel you're safe, it amplifies the shock."
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