Shakespeare's Globe

On Wednesday 12 September, we went to Shakespeare's Globe to see The Merchant of Venice, a late birthday treat for Megan. We managed to get tickets for the seated area, so we avoided the riff-raff in the standing room. We had been advised to take cushions to put on our old fashioned wooden seats, as the play lasts for over three hours.

The theatre was amazing. We weren't supposed to take photos, but Tim managed to sneak a few pictures on his mobile phone. The plays are performed the same way as they were 200 years ago, with the crowd being very much part of the action. The actors pass through the crowds to get on the stage at times, and one girl even got a bit of tongue action from one of the actors...she must have asked nicely.

The Merchant of Venice was fantastic. The actors were all very good. To memorise that many lines, some of which are huge, and in Shakespearean language, is very impressive. As the theatre is open air, performances are only during the summer, so this season's shows are nearly finished. We would love to go back next summer to see another play.

Brendan was in town again last week, and we met him for dinner on Friday night. We went to The Cinnamin Club in Westminster, a restaurant we had heard very good things about. While not really an Indian restaurant, there is an Indian influence in the flavours. We all enjoyed our dinner and some New Zealand wine!

Saturday meant sport for Tim, so Megan took the opportunity to head off with the girls for cupcakes and shopping in Notting Hill. It was great to see the famous markets but even better to see our good friend Neena, who is doing a bit of travelling in this part of the world. We stopped outside the travel book shop which featured in the movie and took the obligatory photo (see below).

After seeing the All Blacks romp home against Portugal, we headed off for a night out at Wandsworth Common where we shocked the pants of Anna (not literally) with a surprise dinner for her birthday at Chez Bruce. The restaurant had been recently named London restaurant of the year and we gave it two thumbs up.

Cupcakes

Anna and Guy,

full of Chez Bruce