Welcome back to our series about cheap seat options available in the West End and slightly beyond.. This week, we are in the heart of the West End on glitzy Shaftesbury Avenue.
Show and venue
Juno and the Paycock, Gielgud Theatre – £20, slightly restricted view
Seat
Booked D 26 Grand Circle
Expectation
A seat towards the side is going to miss a bit of the left-hand stage action. Depending on the show, you are taking a chance but otherwise, a clear view, nearer than you think.
With slightly better legroom, this is a better option than the seats further back in this section.
Reality
We sadly had a row A leaner during act 1, causing something of a lean-forward domino effect. He left at the interval, but really, there’s no need to do this.
Otherwise, yes, this play uses the extreme front of the stage and the left-hand side as you look towards it, so the similar seats at the other side of the row might be better for this production.
No issues with sound and generally, this is an excellent budget option. You may feel you are looking down at a slightly odd angle, but that’s only noticeable because of the position of a Catholic Cross hanging down over the action throughout.
Evidence
My photo shows the restriction before the curtain goes up:
A production shot by Manuel Harlan shows the setting at the front of the stage, also actor Mark Rylance spends some time sitting on the floor which may also reduce visibility:
Come back soon, where I will be taking a look at another ‘cheap seat’ show.