Simon Callow investigates the systemic decline of British theatre and the erosion of professional stagecraft in the modern era. Drawing upon his extensive experience as a working actor and director, Callow critiques the industry's shift toward commercial novelty and the abandonment of traditional ensemble training. He argues that the current trajectory of the profession threatens the long-term viability of the medium.

Critics and theatre practitioners often cite this work as a provocative, albeit pessimistic, commentary on the professional standards of the late 20th-century stage. Readers frequently note the author's uncompromising tone and his focus on the preservation of classical stagecraft.