Arabian Night's picture by Keith Pattison
I’ve just returned from taking a small group of visitors on a tour of the Courtyard Theatre. They were very enthusiastic about being able to go onto the stage and to see back stage, especially when there are so many costumes and props on display. What they did see reminded me of the tremendous work that goes on behind the scenes with any RSC production to ensure that audiences experience the very best.
Arabian Nights is a great example of this when you look at the splendid costumes and props, not forgetting the puppets made specially for this show. No matter what the age, we all enjoy pure theatrical magic, and this wonderful seasonal show certainly provides that.
A tour of the Courtyard Theatre also enables visitors to consider the contribution of musicians, wigs/make up, dressers and running wardrobe, not forgetting the technicians up aloft and the stage management team. Indeed, on the current stage manager’s desk the copy of the script reminds us at the very beginning of this show that whilst we may marvel at what we see with our eyes, we also need to be aware of the words of the story:
“Listen”
An important reminder for us to do exactly that, whatever the show, so that the theatrical magic intended by the storytellers/dramatists may be experienced the very moment a performance begins.
A visit backstage before a performance really gets one in the theatrical mood and reminds us of all who so faithfully and professionally prepare for performance.
Tony Boyd-Williams RSC Friend and Volunteer Tour Guide
To find out more about tours of the Courtyard Theatre visit www.rsc.org.uk/theatretours
RSC Friends 
Having a look backstage gives colour and content to the any theatre and its productions.
Visiting the Memorial Theatre and seeing how it connected with The Swan was fascinating.
On such visits the theatres are still and silent with just the
sound of the visitors. Backstage, glimses of the current
production can be seen, a wig here, a piece of furniture there. Who peoples these structures.
Yet the life returns when the lights go up and the speeches
begin. It is magically indeed.