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Being so close to Stratford I have never felt any need or desire to venture further afield and visit Shakespeare's Globe. Firstly, no plays would have been staged there in Shakespeare’s time as this Globe theatre is relatively new, completed in 1997. Also, why would I pay to travel down to London and have to stand for three hours while watching the play? I could just as easily get in my car, drive to the centre of the Shakespearean universe, which is a lot nearer, and sit down to watch a play that, in all honesty, would probably be better.
There is certain trepidation amongst thespians and theatrical connoisseurs about the Globe. Many perceive it to be simply a tourist attraction, where plays are staged to satisfy the many Shakespearean pilgrims who make the trip. The ‘proper’ plays are done by the RSC in the West End, or have Jude Law in them.
However I no longer share their prejudices or fears, as I saw Romeo and Juliet at the Globe over Easter and it was a fantastic experience. The location on the bank of the Thames is beautiful, especially when the British weather decides to produce sun. This is also good for those with standing tickets as it is an open air theatre and if it rains, you will get wet. Luckily for us the weather was perfect, and the standing wasn’t half as bad as I thought it would be. Our proximity to the stage meant it was a more interactive experience – the actors occasionally exit through the audience, and the sword fights definitely make you flinch as the blade comes towards you.
The cast were all exceptional, especially Ellie Kendrick as Juliet. She recently played Anne Frank in the BBC’s production of The Diary of Anne Frank, and certainly looked young enough to play Juliet as she is meant to be. The Globe must be a tough challenge for any actor what with a certain level of audience participation, and the fact that the theatre is on a flight path so that the actors’ voices have to compete with the noise of the aeroplanes. But all involved rose to the challenge and delivered worthy performances.
I am no longer content to stay in Stratford with the ‘real’ RSC and watch plays in the Courtyard Theatre. Now I have been to the Globe I realise that’s how Shakespeare was meant to be seen, and I am glad I’m not a Globe virgin any more.
The Globe's 'Young Hearts' season is on now until 10th October.
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