Its amazing when you find something new. The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse at the Globe is my latest surprise. Perfect for a cold winter evening.
I went to see the ‘Secret Theatre’ The Dark Arts of Elizabeth’s Spymaster by Anders Lustgarten and really felt I went back in time and in a theatre which is truly special.
At Sadlers Wells
I have been fortunate recently to be able to attend a variety of performances at the Sadlers Wells Theatre. A natural lover of ballet meant attending a ‘Flamenco Festival London’ performance at the Sadlers Wells Theatre, was totally out of my comfort zone. As my mantra is to learn something new every day, this was an opportunity not to be turned down.
Wow, what an experience. Israel Galván, FLA.Co.Men with musicians and singers performed for 90minutes with such passion, rhythm and skill, it took my breadth away. I felt I was being given a glimpse of Spanish life, emotions, humour and in particular their connection and love of music. The sounds of Israel’s steps on the stage had long lasting impact.
For me Sadlers Wells has become my Tate Modern of dance and performance in London.
At the National Theatre London.
When you get to a point you are feeling you are stuck at a red light in life or career, my advice is always ‘Get Out There, see what might turn up, learn something new and if possible make someone smile’.
I am still buzzing, following an amazing weekend. I was searching the National Theatre Website and I came across a play ‘Hedda Gabler’ by Henrik Ibsen. The powerful promotional image encouraged me to want to book a ticket.
I will have to admit Ibsen did not initially draw me, it was the image of Ruth Wilson and the feeling this was a story worth investigating.
Wow, this is a play worth seeing. The cast are amazing and in particular Ruth Wilson who plays Hedda. This is not highbrow; this is a new version by Patrick Marber who also wrote the screenplay ‘ notes on a scandal’. What is great about the National Theatre is, although this play is sold out, the National provides other opportunities to access a few tickets, all explained online and also will be screening this show at Cinemas on the 9th March. So it will be possible to see it.
What have I learnt today? Well, I have to keep an eye on work by Patrick Marber, performances with Ruth Wilson and that Ibsen was Norwegian, born in 1928 and he also wrote a Dolls House.
I purchased a ‘Big Issue’ and this did make both the seller and myself smile.
cultural-dimensions 