So it was off to the Coliseum for English National Opera and Philip Glass’s Opera about Ghandi. I thought myself lucky, having bagged a front tow circle seat in the secret seats lottery. A £68 seat for £20! Unfortunately it was front row in the slips. The view of the orchestra and conductor was excellent. The action was visible, although half the projected text wasn’t, being on a very curved set, and as I hadn’t shelled out for a programme, I was at a bit of a disadvantage. I liked the music, a lot. The soloists were good, the chorus were good. There was some excellent puppetry and stilt walking. But it was very hot in the theatre, and I was bundled up in boots and jumper ( February!). My coat was under the seat in a bundle. My admittedly oversized handbag was wedged between my waist and the circle rail ( remember to take a smaller bag next time). My knees were pressed hard up against the safety barrier ( and I am not tall), and when I later took my boots off, I found bruises from where I had had to twist my feet to fit them into the available space. By the end of act 1 I was in such discomfort that I had to leave.
I did really like the first act of Satyagraha. I wish I could have seen the whole opera. Sadly, this may never happen, as if doesn’t seem to be available on DVD. I suppose I’ll have to hope it isn’t too long before it gets put on again. And I’ll book a better seat.
musings 