One of the pleasures I had on my list for very long time is visiting Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre at the riverside of the Thames between Southwark Bridge and Millenium Bridge. The current building was opened in 1997 and it is a replica of the original Globe Theatre built in 1599 (burned down in 1613 and finally removed after reconstruction in 1644). Even though it had to be modernized for security reasons the Globe still gives you the original feeling of a playhouse of Elizabethan times.
Even though tickets are sold in advance there is always a long queue upfront to performances and that is due to the different ticket types. If you want to spend quite some money you can get one of the seats on three levels surrounding the stage. For that it is advisable to also get a cushion from a stand next to the bar (you can take drinks in with you by the way). If you’re having long legs don’t take one of the seats in the first row of the upper levels; believe me it is painful. The real pleasure is to get a cheap ticket (5 GBP) for standing in front of the stage – that’s why you have to queue up and be there early to get a good position and in best case the chance to lean on the stage.
‘Some Cupid kills with arrows, some with traps.’
– William Shakespeare: Much Ado About Nothing
Standing seems to be better than sitting as the actors and actresses move through the audience and often also involve the spectators into the play. That’s leading to a very funny and unusual atmosphere. Be reminded that the plays of William Shakespeare are performed in his ancient language; you need some language skills, listen closely and derive some details from context – but it is absolutely fun. I went there for a performance of Much Ado About Nothing, a comedy (or rom-com in todays words?) first mentioned in the year 1600. Won’t be the last time that I’m visiting this place and enjoying a play in this wonderful location. If you want to shop some Shakespeare-related items in the well-assorted shop please keep in mind that it closes after the break.
Globe Theatre
London
England
United Kingdom
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