Színhúzásos

Színhúzásos is a Hungarian term that translates roughly to "theater pulling" or "theater dragging." It refers to a phenomenon where a theater company, particularly a publicly funded one, becomes overly reliant on a star performer or director. This reliance can lead to a situation where the success and artistic direction of the theater are perceived to be entirely dependent on this individual or a small group of individuals.

The term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of broader artistic vision or a failure to cultivate a diverse ensemble of talent. When a theater is heavily "színhúzásos," it can mean that new productions are chosen primarily to showcase the star, or that the theater's reputation hinges solely on their presence. This can make it difficult for emerging artists to gain a foothold or for the theater to adapt to changing artistic trends if the central figure remains static.

In some cases, színhúzásos can be a deliberate strategy to attract audiences, as a well-known personality can guarantee ticket sales. However, critics argue that this approach can ultimately limit the artistic scope and long-term sustainability of the institution. It can also create internal tensions if other members of the company feel overshadowed or undervalued. The concept highlights the challenges of balancing individual artistic brilliance with the collective health and development of a theatrical organization.