I love the anticipation of a trip to the theatre – finding the seats, watching the audience filter in, checking out the stage setup and (sometimes) listening to the musicians tune up. It’s such a treat!
These are the shows I watched:
1. Come From Away.
Oxford New Theatre, Oxford.
April 2024.
I’ve seen plenty of musicals in my time but absolutely loved this as it was so different. Come From Away tells the story of 30+ planes (and 7000 people) who had an unexpected landing in Newfoundland when 9/11 caused the airspace to shut down. It’s a simple set, just chairs and about twelve cast members, who play multiple roles. The music had a folksy edge to it, which I love.
2. Waiting for Godot.
Theatre Royal, Haymarket, London.
October 2024.
Although this is a well known play I came to it without any knowledge of its plot. I use the word plot very lightly. It’s basically two tramps waiting by a tree for Godot to arrive. Spoiler – he doesn’t turn up! I’m not actually sure if I enjoyed it or not. It was engaging and the two actors were excellent, but would I see it again? No.
3. Oedipus.
Wyndhams Theatre, London.
October 2024.
Theatre shows in London are not affordable, unless you happen to be in the back row of the gods (as I was). Despite a view mostly of the actors heads this was a terrific play. Mark Strong and Lesley Manville starred in this modern day remake of Oedipus. They had a fantastic chemistry and it was great to see such experienced actors live on stage.
4. Why am I so single
Garrick Theatre, London.
November 2024.
My daughter turned to me at the interval and said “I think you’re the oldest person here”. I looked around, and realised the rest of the audience were mostly in their 20s and 30s. This helped explain some of the dating related jokes that went over my head. The musical was written by the duo who wrote Six, but whilst it was enjoyable enough the music went in one ear and out the other. Definitely a musical for Gen Z theatre goers not Gen X ones.
5. Chicago
New Theatre, Oxford.
February 2025
I heard “Cell Block Tango” as a standalone song at a school event many years ago and absolutely loved it (although given its subject matter I am surprised it was in a school show!). I enjoyed it just as much when I heard it again in this production. However, it was the highlight. I wasn’t so keen on the rest of the songs, as I’m not a fan of jazz style music. It feels harsh to say I didn’t enjoy the production, as the cast and set design were great. Just not for me.
Challenge partly completed
Challenge partly completed. Pop over to read the full list of my 60 things to do before I’m 60.