Leisure

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that a local group was to perform 'Spamalot'. St. Albans Musical Theatre (previously known as St Albans Operatic Society) have been producing high-quality productions for some years now and I must say expectations were high. St. Albans is blessed with many high-quality amateur and professional performers (being located close to London being one of the main reasons), as well as directors and choreographers.

Family relations don’t come much more painful than those depicted in Sophocles’ standout story of revenge Electra. And the two-and-a-half thousand year-old play about honour, justice and vengence will be the Company of Ten’s next production. This highly accessible version by Kenneth McLeish uses clear modern language and themes to ensure a rich theatrical experience for today’s audiences, who will recognise the idea of expedient, vengeful killing from current news stories.

Market Days in St Peter’s Street: Wednesdays and SaturdaysST ALBANS CLOCK TOWER, High Street, OPEN Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays through until mid-September. Climb...

Office politics take a dramatic turn at the Abbey Theatre Studio next week, with their production of Bull, a powerful play about workplace bullying, written by Mike Bartlett. Three colleagues, Thomas, Isobel and Tony, gather together before an important meeting with their manager, Carter. The company is downsizing, and one of the three is about to lose their job. It soon becomes apparent that Isobel and Tony have decided Thomas will be the sacrificial lamb, as they begin a barrage of insults, innuendo and uninvited physical contact, aimed at undermining and overwhelming him.

A few years ago, I asked Imogen de la Bere what she would consider to be the essence of life. 'Truth' was her answer. Interestingly, the OVO philosophy of theatre is that the 'emotional truthfulness of the acting should supply everything.'

James Hannaway, owner of the beautifully renovated Rex Cinema in Berkhamsted, is now in the final phase of purchasing The Alpha (previously the Odeon Cinema) in St Albans. It is hoped that the last £100 K will be pledged or donated in the coming week bringing it to a total of £1 million.

Alban is a two act community opera involving over 150 performers which has been commissioned by the St. Albans Cathedral Music Trust. It will be given five performances (including a matinee) in St. Albans Cathedral between May 20-24 2009, bringing together a wealth of local talent. Singers, actors, dancers and musicians of all ages drawn principally, though not exclusively, from parish and school choirs across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire will join a core of experienced professional performers.

Jackson Live in Concert has to be the most accurate and exciting tribute to the King of Pop to have ever toured UK theatres. Presented by Sweeney Entertainments, this concert show is in its eight year of touring and sees long-time fan and hugely talented Ben recreate the Michael Jackson experience with his stunning rendition of all his favourite songs.

All human beings have questions. Philosophers are people who explore them. Learn how philosophy can expand your world and the view you have of yourself, and help deal with the challenges of everyday life. Join us (and some of the all-time great philosophers) for a course of ten evening sessions in timeless, practical wisdom.

Another strong production by The Company of Ten. Well acted and staged. High quality theatre. This is a play that The Company of Ten should be highly suited to and indeed they are! All the main characters are credible and well-acted by the cast. The costumes and scenery are spot on in achieving a look and feel of a pre-war English country house. A very enjoyable and entertaining evening. Highly recommended, running till October 20th.