58 replies to this topic

[Pharaoh's number 2]

Oh goody. I'm row A facing, which should be ok. Dull question: is there a programme?

[armadillo]

Lynette, on 13 October 2012 - 09:03 PM, said:

Worth queuing. Arrived at ten to seven to collect tix and there was a queue, about 20 people. I saw at least the first couple get in. So maybe queue from 5pm.
It is a little cracker. Eileen Atkins a treat, Michael Gambon excellent. The direction v good using a narrow stage fully. I think it cheated the rules in that yes, they held scripts and it had sound effects but Eileen Atkins was not really reading her part, nor were the others much. And acted, she certainly did. It would be nice to have on an audio or to see it on the telly.

Beckett amazing. Not a word wasted or out of place.

Seats a total pain in buttocks and knees. You can't put your feet down and hoicking  them up risks kneeing the person next you which is ok if you are very good friends, otherwise not. This was row B facing. So if this is the usual format for this venue then remember to ask for front row or side on. The place was packed to the gills.

I've been a few times and the seating has always been the same. Row B are the most uncomfortable in London - I think I'd prefer standing if I had a wall to lean against. Why they can't sort it is a complete mystery  - surely a few planks or even boxes would do it?

But I'm disappointed you didn't talk your way into better seats, Lynette. Weren't there any Young People you could intimidate?

[Lynette]

I knew it was going to be a short show but I certainly was uncomfortable; after an hour I was glancing at my watch despite the tour de force performance of Eileen Atkins. I looked around and realised that most of the audience were in the same boat as it were. As for younger people, you mean teenagers, eh? Cheeky.

[Lynette]

There is a programme, costs £3 - has nice photos of cast and longer than usual biogs of EA and MG.

[steveatplays]

This is beyond brilliant. With the caveat that I like Beckett a lot, and my legs were dangling even in Row C facing, this is one of the best things I have ever seen. It really should have an extended life at a bigger theatre, and it should be filmed, or at the very least, recorded for posterity.

[Honoured Guest]

Constraining your audience in a physically excruciating situation is an immersive way to stage Sam. Katie Mitchell made us promenade in complete darkness in her RSC Beckett Shorts.

[Nicholas]

To anyone in the know - for returns, when should you turn up and what's the likelihood of success?  I have a gap in my schedule where I was planning to go to the theatre (thank you, Royal Court's new booking system...) and can be at the theatre by 3 or 4.  I'd hate to go, though, and waste some 4 hours of my life sat outside a tiny theatre without any chance of success.  Or, what else is decent but starts after 7:30, is close to Jermyn Street theatre and is likely to have cheap seats on the door?

[Pharaoh's number 2]

A Chorus of Disapproval at the Harold Pinter; just across Regents Street, and then the Haymarket. 3 minute walk. Pillar seats- £10 (N7/15 stalls, also a couple in dress), great view. Don't usually sell. I saw it yesterday afternoon and had a great time.

[Nicholas]

Queuing paid off - first in line and got a ticket.  The show was quite remarkable - I think Eileen Atkins is the actress of the year, and I'm racking my brains to think of someone who could match her last year or the year before.  Gambon superb (though not as superb as Krapp's Last Tape - close though!).  Universally good ensemble.  Great staging - I think it had the perfect balance of "semi" and "staged".  I loved the intimacy the theatre offered (and my seat wasn't uncomfortable, though not comfortable).  One of the highlights of the year, an absolute treat.

On a sidenote, just before Gambon's entrance, does he get in character by closing his eyes and seeming in another world, or did I catch him having a nap mid-show?  If it's how he gets in character, it works.  If it's him having a nap, I wish I could act like that when I wake up.

[robintusin]

Does anyone know how Michael and Eileen enter the theatre? Do they use the fire exit or the main entrance? Has anyone managed to get pictures and autographs with them?