An enthusiastic group of Russians watch a play in London, amongst a restrained London audience. Talk about a culture clash.
They seemed to be unaware of the tacit British cultural law which says that even though you may laugh in the theatre, essentially you are there as part of a rather dreary self-improvement exercise with your hair-shirt only just concealed beneath your outer wear. The Russians kept attempting spontaneous bursts of applause when Shaw made any particularly amusing physical or verbal gesture; and laughed like there was no tomorrow.
I found this attitude of frank enjoyment a heartwarming tribute to the miraculous writing of the great modernist, until the moment when they started taking photographs. In the National Theatre! While Fiona Shaw was actually speaking! With strange whirrings and clickings emanating from their cameras! Suddenly it was time for me to drop my attitude of tolerant indulgence and turn round and fix them with my hate-filled Anglo-Saxon basilisk stare.
I wouldn’t want to be those Russians, let me tell you.
(Thanks to the lovely Rebecca – who likes to see people enjoying their theatre – for the link).
{ 4 comments }
Dear Andy,
A true clash of civilizations between two sets of “?????????? ????”?
Well, I don’t know, but in comparison to a decade ago, Russian tourists go to the theatre, in evidence that Russians abroad nowadays are not the same noveau riche as once was the case. A great relief in my eyes. So, keep on with spontaneity, ye Russian tourists!
Yours,
Vilhelm
Before I get accused of any bias, I should say that I’ve watched a few plays in Russia in my time, as well as in London, and I’ve not really noticed much of a difference between Russian and British audiences. Assuming its not a comedy, if the play is any good, the audience is usually to involved to take photos, etc.
Dear Andy,
Point taken. The difference is, come to think of it, not that great, but still I am happy that Russian tourists go to the theatre when visiting London. I hope this example sets a trend.
Yours,
Vilhelm
I think the russians may have stood out initially because they were laughing at a Beckett play – us members of the theatrical chattering classes often feel suffocated by the perceived need for pseudo intellectual reverance – especially when HRH Fiona Shaw is on stage.
Having said all that, I saw the production in question, and it was visually pretty stunning – and probably deserved the odd photo!
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