Arts Beyond the Classroom

A group blog for families to share experiences of culture in London.

Wilton's Music Hall

from Joshua Cardale | Comment (3) | Jan 5, 2010 Joshua Cardale

Just before Christmas I went to see a play by David Mamet ('Edmond') at Wilton's Music Hall in the East End (near to Aldgate East tube station). It was amazing! The building has a crumbling facade and interior, but the main structure is still intact and in the faded glamour a stunning elegance remains. The play was a 'promenade performance', which meant that the audience of about 40/50 followed the performers round as the action of the play moved from the bar to a side room to the entrance hall, then through the backstage area and later on the balcony and even the street outside! As well as excellent performances from the actors, several of whom were playing more than one part, the whole play was soundtracked by a troupe of country musicians called The Bonfire Band. Their mixture of understated incidental music and bittersweet ballads plucked and strummed out on banjo, guitar and double bass complimented perfectly the atmosphere of both the subject matter and the venue, making for an unforgettable evening. And there was mulled wine!

Here's Katie interviewing me about it:


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