A.R.T.'s Menagerie?

[LimelightMike]

Posted: 5/16/13 at 7:56pm

Hey, all!

I have a quick question with regard to A.R.T.'s incarnation of Menagerie. What with it 'officially' making the move: To those who saw it in Cambridge, is the set 'high'? Would front row be a little much of a hassle? Any insight would be greatly appreciated. By the looks of things, it's a 'small' stylized set, but, what with the additional of the 'black liquid', I was just curious for some perspective. Thanks!

- M :)

[bjh2114]

Posted: 5/16/13 at 7:59pm

I don't think I would sit in the front row for this one. You really want to be able to take in the whole stage at once to get the most out of the imagery. I would recommend about halfway back in the orchestra or front of the mezz for this one.

[LuminousBeing]

Posted: 5/16/13 at 11:09pm

I sat about ten rows back, in the center. It was perfect, because it allowed me to take in all the scenery while still being close enough to the actors to see their faces clearly.

[Play Esq.]

Posted: 5/16/13 at 11:14pm

Close is fine...it's an intimate production with little movement outside the stage's four corners. That said, the Booth can go "high" for productions (OTher Desertt Cities) so perhaps some caution might be in order.

[LimelightMike]

Posted: 5/17/13 at 2:38am

Duly noted, friends. :)

[lenstersf]

Posted: 5/17/13 at 10:08am

The stage was quite low at the A.R.T. I sat in the third row orchestra, and this was perfect. I highly recommend sitting close to the stage. There are only four actors and most of the action takes place center stage. This is most evident in the second act, when Laura and Jim are seated in the middle of the stage for a good 20 minutes.

[dave1606]

Posted: 5/17/13 at 10:15am

I can tell you that I sat front row on the side for this production and the view was fantastic. It was amazing to watch the actors that close.

I should let you know that we were warned as we were very close to the moat that surrounds the stage. The stagehands warned us not to touch the water because it was a liquid material that would "stain the skin." That was moderately terrifying!

That said, the stage at ART was quite low, and I am not sure that it will be the case when it transfers. I would wait to here reports this fall in the new theater.

[jaxandmci]

Posted: 5/17/13 at 11:40am

I sat front row center for Virginia Woolf and it was an incredible view onto a low stage--like sitting right in George and Martha's living room.

I saw Other Desert Cities from the front row as well and while I agree with Play Esq. that the stage seemed higher, it was still a great view.

5'10" here.