Touring The National Theater

My theater class toured the National Theatre today. This tour was way better than the Globe Theatre tour. We got to go back stage as well as learn about the theatre. There are three theaters inside the National Theater. Each one was designed differently and is a different size. They also run on a rotation system. 2 shows will play in the same theater for the same run time. they switch out every 5 days for about 3 months. Unfortunately we couldn't take pictures. Having a guide makes it much harder to sneak them as well.

We went into the biggest Theater first. This one was my favorite. We learned about the underground drum which is where they store different sets. We also learned about how the floor moves so that the sets can easily be changed during the show without the audience knowing. The set that was up was so cool. It moved and could open like a story book. The smallest stage was very little. The audience actually sits on the stage as well as in the balcony. It was interesting to learn about the different types of plays that are performed here. Apparently they can stage anything on that small of an area.The last stage we went to was the middle sized one. I was surprised at how it was set up just like most of the other stages in London. It was the typical stage you see anywhere. We were able to go back stage and see where the sets are stored. We were also told about how they move the sets on and off. The sets are made on a wagon which will then drop down into the floor once put into place.

Each theatre was different and had their own way of moving sets and whatnot. We got a chance to walk through the dressing room areas along with the workshops where the sets are made and the prop area. I really enjoyed this tour. It showed a lot of the background of the shows.

Cheers,
Allie