Ensemble Theatre Group

iPod in hand as I flick through the tracks I stop, the music begins to fill me head as I remember that same feeling as I did maybe 20 years ago.

London in the eighties there is nothing quite like going to London to see a musical, the excitement of that childhood trip I remember well. Early mornings here in Liverpool and the anticipation of the Pullman train journey down to Euston station in London when my father had to go on business.

My mother, sister and I were promised a trip shopping in London coupled with a musical. A sense of anticipation grew as the day went on, arriving at the Cumberland hotel while mother adorned in here fur coat discussed what seats were available for which shows. I guess it was about 1982 and a host of Andrew Lloyd Webber productions were being staged in the West End, Starlight Express, Sunset Boulevard, The Phantom of the Opera coupled with the rock musical Time or Mutiny on the Bounty. How times have changed.

Then little girls wore long dresses and ladies in cocktail dresses whilst the men wore black tie and evening jackets a really sense of occasion and like all young children my sister and I simply loved getting dresses up.

Finally the moment arrived seated in the centre circle waiting for the curtain to raise my sister on my left with mum and dad seated to my right , opera glasses in hand star struck waiting for the orchestra to play that first note. It mattered not which musical or even which theatre just those stage lights and that compelling tune that fills the theatre. On this occasion it happened to Sunset Boulevard and the curtained began to raise.

I knew from the very first time I watched my first musical that I would be a life long theatre goer and would dream of one day performing upon that stage. The music filled my head and my heart and the show began. There is no experience quiet like it and the glamour of the eighties theatre nights were there for everyone too see.

Before you knew where we were it was the interval, as the ladies and gentlemen flowed into the bar there was a silver tray with the name Warwick upon it our order already for us at the bar in the theatre, refreshments for all . Cigarettes and cigars lit the room filled with chatter of the performances while the air filled with the smell of cigars.

Five minutes ten minutes who knows soon we were seated back in our velvet seats again waiting for the final encounter. I will never forget the performance of an aged Hollywood star trying to deal with the end of the silent era a wonderful story moving and yet enlightening. The music seemed timeless and the experience will forever stick in my memory, ever show as memorable as the last ever performance unique.

Finally the audience raised the roof with applause standing clapping endlessness as the performers re-entered the stage to take there curtain call louder and louder the theatre rang with applause. Peering over the centre circle to take one last look at the stage I can remember that feeling a slight tear in my eye produced by happiness and a slight yawn as it was way past my bedtime. A family experience that once taken you would never forget.

As I lay in my bed that night I can remember seeing the lights and hearing the music melodically soothing me to sleep.

London’s West End is often considered a mecca for live stage entertainment. Musicals, drama, comedy, tragedy, opera, and just about any other theatrical genre you can think of are all showing in London’s famous entertainment district throughout the year. With a choice of over 100 productions playing at any one time there’s bound to be something that appeals, so why not combine a theatre trip with an overnight stay in a West End hotel?

When you’re looking for ideas as to what to see in the West End, consider all your options carefully. The fantastic musical “We Will Rock You” at the Dominion features the stirring music of rock group ‘Queen’. Alternatively, if you love a good cliff-hanger, the classic “The 39 Steps” should do the trick.

Meanwhile, if reality TV and the search for stars to appear in ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Grease’ and ‘Joseph’ has whetted your appetite – if so, make sure you secure a ticket for one of these un-missable shows. Or for something a little more traditional, opt for a trip to a stirring opera such as Verdi’s ‘Aida’ or maybe a trip to the ballet in Covent Garden.

The beauty of London’s West End, however, is that so much is packed into such a small area: theatres, hotels, restaurants, pubs, and shops are all conveniently located close together – making it a great place to visit for an action-packed break. Also, many restaurants in the West End offer a special value menu for theatre-goers wishing to eat before attending their selected performance, especially in the area around Leicester Square – so remember to take advantage!

Theatre breaks are not just a summer activity, but can be enjoyed all-year round. Moreover, London’s tumult of activity never ceases, so you’ll be able to see the sights whether you visit in the height of summer or the depths of winter. With many historic attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, plus far more besides, you will never be stuck for attractions to appreciate. Plus, many of the other marvellous sights of the country’s capital are just a short journey away from the West End, including London’s newly crowned number one tourist attraction – The London Eye.

And no visit to London would be complete without a spot of shopping! Hot-spots such as Oxford Street, Regents Street, Carnaby Street and Knightsbridge are all ripe for a spot of retail therapy. From chain stores to exclusive designer shops you’ll find them all, but remember to get back to your hotel in plenty of time to change for curtain-up!

Perhaps your ideal theatre break involves adding romance to your theatre break with a stay in an intimate boutique hotel in London with your partner, or maybe you just want to plump for a budget hotel. Either way by booking a hotel in the West End you’ll never be far away from the spotlight.