I’ve visited London a number of times but have only ever seen one show – The Mousetrap – so, as the whole purpose of my trip was to see a show, I decided to double up and see two – Wicked, and David Baddiel – My Family: Not The Sitcom.
Despite never having seen the show, and having only a hazy idea of the storyline, I was very familiar with the music of Wicked (I blame an episode of Glee somewhere in the depths of history). I had always wanted to see the show (and came actually close in Sydney till I saw the ticket prices), so I paid the grand sum of £20 for a seat at the end of the second row.
The ticket said *restricted view* and so it was by a huge staircase and, at times, half the cast. But the production and the costumes and the cast and the set and, well, everything was stunning. Absolutely loved it. Will go and see it again. Like with the Queen’s frocks in the exhibition at Buckingham Palace, there were a number of costumes I would love to add to my wardrobe. (I’m not quite clear how this would work when I travel with one small bag but I guess I could sacrifice a few things to get a scene-stealing hat or ballgown in there.)
My second show was a completely different experience. I’ve been a big fan of David Baddiel for as long as I have been aware of his comedy but this show – My Family: Not The Sitcom – is something quite different. He told the tale of his parents, his mum and her “special” characteristics, and his dad’s journey with dementia. It was irreverent and touching, and managed to be side-splittingly funny and heartbreakingly sad. The fact he could be so open with his family’s secrets and find (and share) the humor in things that were often quite difficult means this is one of the best shows I’ve seen. It was the reason I planned my trip to London and it so totally worth it.
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