A double feature in today’s ‘cheap seats’ series, checking out budget options in London’s larger theatres.
Today I’m showing you my seats at the Old Vic, for Arcadia, and the Royal Opera House, for Boris Godunov.
Show and venue: Arcadia, Old Vic
Seat: Stage Stalls N39, £45
Expectations: Labelled as restricted view and behind slim pillar, I expected a near flawless view and an occasional need to reposition to see actors blocked by the pillar.
Reality: Exactly what I expected. This was the back row of the stage stalls (Arcadia is presented in the round with stalls and circle seats where the prosenium is located). Comfortable if a little closely packed.
Evidence: A photo taken pre-show showing the location of the pillar.
And this is a production photo by Manuel Harlan, showing the show without a pillar, and also with the lights above that are partially obscured from the stage stalls.
Show: Boris Godunov, Royal Opera House
Seat: Ampitheatre R77, £41
Expectations: High up but steeply raked and set back from the stage area. I did not anticipate any viewing problems. The subtitles above the stage would not be visible due to a curve in the building design.
Reality: This is an excellent seat, with a clear view. I did have a couple of leaners in front of me, but once they sat back, it was fine. The surtitles are projected on the wall in the centre, so easy to see from the higher amphitheatre level. The sound is excellent, and this seat has plenty of room at the side for bags, etc., and has an armrest, which other seats in this area lack.
Evidence: This is a photo taken pre-show, showing the angle from seat R77, and another at curtain call. The surtitles are located just left of the wall shown here. The orange area of the set is a platform and is slightly obscured at the far right as you look to the stage.
And this is a production photo by Mihaela Bodlovic showing the extent of the top platform, with the surtitles just above and out of shot.
