When Does Feedback Cross the Line?

Photo: Cast of “Purpose” at curtain call, June 2025.

At a recent performance of Purpose — a Tony Award-winning play that explores meaning, identity, and connection — a disruptive moment became an unexpected lesson in professionalism and grace. It reminded me that no matter our role or stage, how we show up speaks volumes about our own sense of purpose.

At the play, during a moving monologue, a woman seated in the front row broke the silence of a live performance to shout at the actor: “You’re not funny.”

It was jarring. Not just because it disrupted the moment — but because it ignored a critical truth: theatre is a workplace. Just like any office, studio, or factory floor, it's a place where professionals show up, perform, and create.

That moment raised a few important reminders for any professional setting:

• Boundaries matter. Delivering feedback isn’t just about what you say — it’s about when and where you say it.

• Emotional intelligence is a skill. Good feedback uplifts, guides, or opens dialogue. Public shaming or unsolicited criticism, especially in the middle of someone’s work, often says more about the speaker than the recipient.

• Grace under pressure is leadership. The actor didn’t flinch. He smiled. He redirected his next lines to the rest of us, continued with poise — and days later, his show won a Tony.

In an era of real-time reactions, open comment sections, and hyper-personalized expression, professionalism still matters. So does kindness.

Let’s challenge ourselves to give and receive feedback thoughtfully — and to remember that behind every performance, product launch, or presentation is a person doing their job.

Let's live with #purpose!