Standing Ovation for Trafalgar Studios’ Decision to Stop Traumatising Goldfish in Tragedy

Anyone familiar with Shakespeare’s Richard III may have been surprised to learn about some unlikely cast members in a new production starring Martin Freeman at London’s Trafalgar Studios – a pair of goldfish. These animals certainly don’t appear on the original running list, and we were dismayed to learn that each night, they were subjected to the terrifying ordeal of having an actor’s head plunge into their tank and then thrash around wildly on stage.

A concerned audience member contacted us after seeing the fish “ground up with the gravel and pushed up against the sides of the tank” in the disturbing scene – which was repeated night after night.

However, we’re pleased to announce that after receiving a letter from us, the play’s director, Jamie Lloyd, agreed to remove the poor fish from the production. Goldfish, like all living beings, are not props, and the well-being of animals should never be compromised for entertainment.

The play is running until September 27 – and compassionate people will no doubt be pleased to learn that they can catch some of the final performances, knowing that only willing human actors will be taking the stage.