PA LIFE CLUB MEET UP: OUR EVENING AT THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE

We were treated to a welcome glass of Champagne at arrival at this beautifully refurbished historic theatre which backs onto Drury Lane. The building is the most recent in a line of four theatres which were built at the same location, the earliest building dated back to 1663, making it the oldest theatre site in London still in use. And it has been managed by many theatre’s biggest names including David Garrick.

All this history makes a fascinating theatre tour, taking in all the accessible areas of the theatre, including a cellar with an old armchair that had belonged to Hitler. We couldn’t get backstage as that’s all taken over by Disney’s Frozen, the hugely popular star show at Drury Lane. We also saw their courtyard garden restaurant that is open for anyone to pop into for coffee, lunch or supper.

In fact the theatre is open for drinks, coffees and afternoon teas most days so pop in to admire the beautiful building and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet in the middle of Covent Garden.

We are all excited to take part of the tour which was expertly guided by David, a professional actors. He was very entertaining and full of the most interesting historic facts and stories. With the tour we could really get into the spirit of the building – talking of spirits there are according to legend 500 ghosts at Drury Lane, the birthplace of the musical, modern pantomime, moving scenery, regular rehearsals and naturalistic acting.

Terms such as Crew, Props and Box Office, all originate here as our expert actors entertain you with stories of stars, innovation, Royal scandal and even murder. Who knows, you may even get to see one of Drury Lane’s famous ghosts!

The tour ended conveniently at the Grand Salon’s lovely terrace, which even has a life-size statue of playwright Noel Coward sitting by one of the tables. We were treated to sumptuous gin cocktails, more wine and delicious canapes whilst our members carried on networking.