Beat the Devil

Last night I went to the theatre. For the first time since February.

That's the longest I've gone without theatre since 2003 when my love affair with the London stage was rekindled watching The History Boys at the National Theatre.

I love theatre. I love the stories, the different perspectives on the same story and debating and discussions with friends after each performance. Theatre gives me energy. I've missed it.

I love the whole shared experience and, even though there were only 250 of us out of a normal audience of 900, socially distanced, masked and sanitised, I felt the buzz of shared joy as we laughed together and gasped at the same shocking revelations of one man's battle with Covid.

After the show I felt unexpectedly emotional and was thrilled to see the Director at the front of the theatre and thank him for such a joyful moment. Then as I passed the stage door on my way to the car, I ran into the actor and was able to thank him for such a masterful monologue.

What did I learn from this experience?

1. It was as magnificent as it was exhausting. Thats the best night's sleep I've had for ages.
2. Managing energy levels is key. What I used to be able to easily do, is now out of the ordinary and needs far more energy than before.
3. Stories are essential. They help us make sense of what's going on and give us perspective on life.
4. I don't see this as going back to the theatre but going forward to the theatre and exploring what's possible now.
5. I am so grateful to have something I love so much back in my life.
6. I still have no desire to get on a tube, even to get to the theatre.
7. I love my car and am so glad I can drive.

I saw Beat the Devil at The Bridge Theatre. Written by David Hare. Performed by Ralph Fiennes. If you love theatre, this is my theatre blog here.