270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 15, 2016 8:39:41 GMT
How is the seating laid out for this show? Is it still around tables? I love this venue but always find the seating a bit cramped, and somebody usually starts carping if you so much as move your chair! I keep hoping it will be better next time I go; I think they just cram too many seats (or tables?) in. Still the same awful seating setup. Why have tables that people can't sit around? Some of the staff are dreadful and officious and the box office staff are often not helpful. The only reasonable seats are the banquettes and with these you need to be careful of the poles. The gallery seating seems better. Shame really as it is a lovely, intimate space spoiled by tying to cram in too many chairs around unsuitable tables. Still, Forever Plaid is an absolute joy!
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270 posts
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Show Boat
Apr 13, 2016 11:29:21 GMT
via mobile
Post by littlesally on Apr 13, 2016 11:29:21 GMT
I was also there last night! There's something very special about watching Show Boat knowing that this show, almost 90 years ago, changed musical theatre forever. You can see why; it's such a well crafted piece of theatre, every scene and song intrinsically linked to the core of the touching story. The themes are also still (sadly) relevant today, but this production is simple, classy, funny, emotional & dignified. The stalls seemed pretty full but unfortunately in the circle, where I was, was probably more empty than full. An enthusiastic response from the audience with a large standing ovation at the end. I also agree that the sound was truly awful. It sounded so muffled, like they were using cheap mics and a cheap sound system. Nothing sounded clear, words got lost in ensemble numbers and it just sounded tinny and contained. Maybe it'll improve as it was only the 2nd preview (and was in extremely good shape!). All performances were fantastic, I'd say. Gina Beck and Rebecca Trehearn were a wonderful pair and oh my goodness what glorious voices and ranges they both have. My Bill received a very large ovation. Don't think there's much to the part of Gaylord and Chris Peluso did just fine. There's the drink and gambling problems but they're not explored as much as they probably are in the original novel - but I didn't see Michael Xavier so can't 'compare' as it were. The comedy felt fresh and un-dated and was delivered well and hats off to the MD, the sound that the ensemble make (particularly the male ensemble) is extraordinary. It's so authentically old-school musical theatre, it's like you were there in 1927 listening to them, or listening to the film recording, practically verging on opera/operetta that this kind of show calls for - and not a fake operetta sound that many MT performers implement whilst attempting to sing legit MT scores, these singers were the real deal - perhaps only Chris Peluso stuck out for his singing style sounding far too modern for what the piece requires. As a show, I actually thought it started quite slow and I was worried I wasn't going to enjoy it, but from Ol' Man River onwards it really hit its stride. I wasn't completely and utterly blown away like many have been, but it's a 4* production without a doubt and a must-see for any lover of the golden age of musical theatre! [ There is clearly a problem with the sound. We were in side circle and it was fine but a friend in the stalls just told me she had to complain about the sound, especially Parthy's miking? Hope they sort it for press night?
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270 posts
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Show Boat
Apr 12, 2016 23:25:20 GMT
via mobile
Post by littlesally on Apr 12, 2016 23:25:20 GMT
This really is one of those rare productions that is hard to over praise. It looks and sounds fresh and wonderful. Performances are superb with special mention for Rebecca Treherne (a stand out in City of Angels too). Expect the reviews will be excellent and this will ensure great ticket sales.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 5, 2016 23:00:55 GMT
Honestly enjoyed it as much as I'd hoped. Doubt if there is more fun and joy to be had in any theatre in London. Immediately booked another trip. It's only here for three weeks!
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 5, 2016 22:50:39 GMT
Really. Just turn up?
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 5, 2016 11:53:51 GMT
Next to Normal, please? With Jenna R? Pretty please?? Someone on here or the old board suggested Next to Normal with Sarah Lancashire which I fully support as an excellent idea! Sarah L would be astonishing in the role. Since Betty Blue Eyes, I have been waiting for her to return to the stage in a musical.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 5, 2016 10:43:27 GMT
Next to Normal, please? With Jenna R? Pretty please??
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 4, 2016 11:51:00 GMT
Anyone else booked for this? I have very fond memories of the original production and since then the cd has been played as a perfect choice whenever I felt the need of cheering up. I do sometimes dread going in with such high expectations as it often leads to slight disappointment but...
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 3, 2016 21:56:09 GMT
Tuesday Forever Plaid Weds Mrs Henderson Presents Thursday Captain Fox Saturday Forever Plaid (again) and Captain Fox (again) Next week SUNSET!!
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Apr 3, 2016 11:32:40 GMT
Saw this yesterday matinee and it started a few minutes late and finished just before half 5. The time flew by, great play and the cast are outstanding. Third time I've seen the caretaker - saw the version with david Bradley and also Jonathan Pryce. Can anyone remember who else was in the Jonathan Pryce version? Peter McDonald?
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 30, 2016 22:36:54 GMT
Completely blown away by this. Last time I left a theatre felling so "wrung out" was Cabaret at the Donmar. Wish it was a longer run so I could see it again. Bizarre but perfect venue for this play.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 30, 2016 14:40:36 GMT
I don't understand why they couldn't just start it at 7pm? The same with Les Blancs at the NT which is 3 hours 15 minutes & starts at 7:30. Saw Les Blancs last night. 2hrs 50mins. Absolutely superb.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 29, 2016 23:15:13 GMT
It has been a long time since I have been so moved by a play. So powerful and beautifully staged and acted. Still relevant too. Hope it gets the recognition it deserves on press night tomorrow.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 28, 2016 13:27:37 GMT
Have tickets for this tomorrow. First time at this venue. Any hints/tips for queuing/getting 4 seats together? I hate unallocated seating.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 27, 2016 2:54:55 GMT
Saw this yesterday. Laughed a great deal. All four actors are impressive but Alexander Hanson is hysterical, finely balancing a difficult role. The fact that we start laughing at him but end up laughing with him. Sold out matinee. Hope it does well.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 23, 2016 22:25:43 GMT
His Dark Materials, A Little Night Music (both using the Olivier drum revolve), etc. Agree and I'd add Coram Boy.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 22, 2016 18:01:18 GMT
Originality and great talent so much of Kander and Ebb. I do love Sondheim and I'm a sucker for Rogers and Hammerstein.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 20, 2016 22:32:33 GMT
I've plumped for balcony seats at £15. Anyone seen it from there?
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 20, 2016 22:31:06 GMT
Kiss of the Spiderwoman. Heartbreaking. Although it is a very hard choice as I love their work.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 19, 2016 18:11:06 GMT
Watched this today and really enjoyed it. The entire cast was on top form with some of the best comic timing I've seen since Noises Off. Rory Keenan (indeed channeling Greg Kinnear with hints of Cary Grant and a young William H Macy) was perfect in the role. It was odd to see half the audience lapping it up (with so many genuine belly laughs) and the other half looking lost! First Donmar show in ages that I'll be returning to see (Barclays Front Row permitting?)
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 19, 2016 9:41:51 GMT
Wonder whether Katie B of Cassidy J might join Carole King onstage at Hyde Park?
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 18, 2016 8:59:18 GMT
Oh gosh yes, Polar Bears was dreadful. Not helped by Jodhi May giving her angstiest all. Urgh. But I don't think anyone rated that, did they? Dimetos also another Donmar low point, but again poorly reviewed and received I think. I'm yet to enjoy a Fugard play, but perhaps I'm not meant to. While we're at this address, I really didn't get Peter Gill's Small Change. I was aching to get out of there. Fugard's "Hello and Goodbye" with Rafe Spall and Saskia Reeves at Trafalgar 2 was very powerful. Dimetos was awfu, yet such a stunning cast. I sometimes wonder if actors don't see past the Donmar reputation and agree to anything?
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 17, 2016 23:44:57 GMT
I loved the revival on Broadway with Eric McCormick and Rebecca Luker, some years ago. Hoped that might come over. At the time I'm sure I recall reading that it was considered too American. I personally don't think it is. There are some great songs, including a few that are very well known.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 17, 2016 21:59:05 GMT
Has there ever been a revival of this in the west end? Woukd one be successful or is it too American (as I have heard many times).Have always been bemused by the fact that this won the Tony over West Side Story!
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 17, 2016 20:51:03 GMT
The Cut. Dimetos. Berenice. All Donmar. In fact, much of Josie Rourke's era. Ooh, yes! The Cut. Dire... (Didn't get it at all. Got more of a thrill seeing Helen Worth in the bar, no doubt there to support fellow Corrie actor at the time, Ian McKellan.) While talking of the Donmar, can I also throw in Polar Bears? Another play not got. Oh yes, Ploar Bears was awful. And Helpless at Donmar. How could that play attract such an amazing cast? Rachel Stirling's debut.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 16, 2016 21:39:21 GMT
The Cut. Dimetos. Berenice. All Donmar. In fact, much of Josie Rourke's era.
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270 posts
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Show Boat
Mar 16, 2016 21:36:51 GMT
via mobile
Post by littlesally on Mar 16, 2016 21:36:51 GMT
Any news/whispers on Gaylord?
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 13, 2016 11:11:59 GMT
The posts which are speculative (but passed as opinion) often by people who haven't yet seen a show (or before the show even hits first preview) do concern me. Along with the persistent posts belittling the opinions of others as less valid or lacking in taste. I know I can be a bit OCD about shows I love but some posters seem hell bent on trashing shows they dislike. As if only liking very few shows automatically makes you more discerning. Tastes vary wildly. The old board had lots of this but this one seems less so. Long may it last.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 13, 2016 10:59:15 GMT
Saw this last night. Loved it. Impeccable performances from all three. Loved the staging (almost like watching an exhibit in a bell jar) and the sound design really added to the mood and helped maintain a feeling of unease throughout. The 2 hours (longer than usual?) flew by - even in those awful seats. Would have been upset if I'd had a stage seat as 80% or more was played to the main house. Highly recommended.
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270 posts
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Post by littlesally on Mar 12, 2016 17:00:56 GMT
Ah, right next to me. I was the guy to your daughter's left wit the glasses and moustache I recognise you now. Would have said Hello. Because of my user name I suppose everyone expects me to be a woman. Wonder whether I ought to change it? Little Sally is one of my favourite characters. (Urinetown)
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