Hello everyone, it's my first time contributing to the forum but felt moved to add a few comments after last night - what an extraordinary occasion.
Kevin O'Hare welcomed the audience at the start, saying it was a bittersweet moment to be back on stage, having an opening night that was also the closing night. The performance itself was extraordinarily good - I can't remember enjoying a mixed bill / gala this much for a long time. It was partly the joy of seeing a live performance again, but also down to the judicious choice of the program, which showcased everything the RB does, from classical to contemporary. I don't have much beyond what's already been said about the performances already, other than to add how much I enjoyed "In Our Wishes" (Marston) with Fumi Kaneko and Reece Clarke - amazing commitment and intensity from Fumi in particular.
Outside the auditorium, the experience was a bit weird but the ROH had obviously taken great precautions - everyone wearing facemasks of course, and we were channelled in from the entrance directly to our seats in the amphitheatre. The different parts of the ROH appeared to have been partitioned off so we wouldn't be mingling in the lobby or the bars. The Floral Hall was completely empty and seemed to be shrouded with plastic screens. The bars were closed and no alcohol or food was served during the interval. It may sound grim but the front of house staff were extremely friendly and welcoming, and there was a tremendous feeling of togetherness - particularly enjoyed hearing the company cheering off-stage directly after the performance; I'm sure that they will come back fighting!
