Yesterday evening, I revisited Arabian Nights. Not only did I want to once again catch this marvellous evening in the theatre before the end of the run on Saturday but I thought it would be interesting and fun to enjoy it from the Gallery. How right I was!
I chose seat A64, the end of a row and looking right down onto the stage. This enabled me to see the fantastic movement and dance from another viewpoint and also to once again really appreciate how very special the Courtyard is and what treats will be in store once the RST reopens.
From this part of the theatre one can certainly see every reaction on the faces of the ensemble and also be even more aware of the musicians plus special effects from on high, a true sharing of the special journey which is theatre.
Around me were a large party of young people from Birmingham. They are studying Theatre and this was their first visit to The Courtyard. From their concentration throughout and their cheering at the end, I suspect they will be back as soon as is possible. Such enthusiasm doubles one’s enjoyment of a visit to the RSC.
Tony Boyd-Williams
RSC Friends 
I’m in complete agreement with you about trying different levels in the theatre. Although we all have preferred seats in the Courtyard it’s not always possible to book them. We saw Hamlet from the gallery and the stalls and each offered a different experience. Sometimes set design and stage directed movement become much more easily appreciated and enjoyed. When the carpet was unrolled in Hamlet I think the gallery was the only place to be to get the full visual impact.
Gill Davies