Hugh Bonneville on the power of the arts: 'Never stop going to movie theatres'

Hugh Bonneville, renowned for his role in the BAFTA-winning series Downton Abbey, recently emphasised the significance of the arts in an interview with the BBC. He asserted that art is a fundamental aspect of our humanity, a sentiment that has been amplified during the pandemic. Bonneville's affinity for the arts was cultivated from a young age, growing up in London as the youngest of three siblings. His interest in acting was sparked by a lodger his parents hosted, who was an actor. The lodger's performance at The Greenwich Theatre in a play titled Forget Me Not Lane left a lasting impression on Bonneville.

Bonneville was recently a guest on Influential, an unscripted interview show hosted by BBC correspondent Katty Kay. During the interview, he shared his journey with the arts and how it has shaped his understanding of humanity. He expressed his belief in the unique power of art to connect with people, a power that has become increasingly important in an era where digital screens dominate our lives. Despite the convenience of home entertainment, Bonneville insists on the irreplaceable experience of live performances and urges everyone to continue patronising movie theatres.

In the interview, Bonneville also highlighted the importance of exposing children to the arts. His parents played a crucial role in immersing him in various cultural experiences from a young age, including concerts, art galleries, and museums. His involvement with the National Youth Theatre during his teenage years further solidified his belief in the transformative power of art. He is now a passionate advocate for ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the arts.