While I do not reside in Sutherland Shire, my sister and her family do.
I often travel south of the city for a variety of family events including the combined schools' performance at the Sutherland Entertainment Centre on August 13. I was astounded to find "helpers" travelling through the audience, tapping people on the shoulder, advising them to put their iPads and phones down as this night was being videoed by a professional AV company and so personal photos and videos were not permitted.
Surprise. Upset. Rebelliousness. All of these emotions were plain to see. Since when is it right to tell a parent that they cannot capture a highlight in their child's life unless they dole out $35 for the privilege? This after paying $17.50 for each seat that a family member occupies to see the concert.
My nephew now has no record of this performance, barring one very fuzzy clandestine shot taken from a secretive lap position. This ruling of no photos/videos is money grubbing, selfish and above all, counter-intuitive to the "family" aspect that these school performances try to harbour. Next year, I will stand. I will take the shot, and we will find out just what legal leg this order of "no photos please" actually has.
Aunty Gail, Marrickville
Should family and friends be allowed to take personal photos/videos at these types of events?
