Theatre. London-Style.

Having seen an absurd number of plays in our short time in London, we decided to shake things up a bit by going to some non-traditional theatre.

We started off at The Drowned Man, put on by Punchdrunk and the National Theatre.  This was an "immersive" play where the audience members put on masks and actually walk around the three floors of the theatre (housed in an old-packing plant), following the characters and scenery that interests them.  The purpose is to allow each guest to create their own experience.  The concept was intriguing and the ambience the created was both unnerving and electric.  Although we enjoyed the play's innovation and the overall experience, we both left feeling completely confused and having no idea what it was supposed to be about.  We were so baffled, in fact, that we had to take to the internet to try and figure out the plot.

To get back into the groove, we decided to hit up the Rooftop Theatre in Shoreditch to watch something a little more mainstream.  Classic, charming and romantic, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" was the perfect choice.  Thrilled with a delicious BBQ vegetarian option, we sipped pimm's and nibbled on popcorn while watching the movie with the sun setting all around us.  Although it got very cold by the end, the gorgeous skyline made it feel like everything was right with the world...just like Audrey Hepburn felt about her visits to Tiffany's.

To round out our week of "unusual" London theatre, we bought tickets to see Hobson's Choice at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre.  Our first highlight was learning that Hobson's Choice is actually a common saying meaning "take it or leave it".   Our second and more lasting memory was the evening itself.  Regent's Park is magnificent and we began our night with a relaxed picnic on the manicured grass.  The play, still in previews, also didn't disappoint and we sat back taking in both a great play and the beautiful night sky.

After such a cool week of theatre we are left with the realization that we need more nights in London - there is just so much to see here!