I don’t go to the theatre enough. A friend was kind enough to get me some free tickets for a show the other day. We went along to the Citizens and instead of going into the main hall we were guided to a tiny room upstairs. The room reminded me of the social areas we had at school. Instead of seats there were wide carpeted steps along the walls.

The ‘stage’ was directly in front of us within touching distance. How actors can perform so close to their audience is beyond my understanding. They’re either very brave or show offs. I’d guess a mix of both. The show was a surreal and often touching comedy about two men working a mundane office job. There were some great moments like when they played the kinder egg game. I’d forgotten about that game. I played it when I was younger. You stick the whole thing in your mouth and removing the yellow egg inside without using your hands. The first to build the toy wins. Good game.

To watch actors perform in front of you instead of on a screen is somewhat magical. You feel a connection with the characters that are often blocked by the glass of the television or cinema screen. I think I might go more often.

Especially if it’s free.

Why is it when something is free it’s even better than if you’d paid for it?  I’ve spent my own money so then my expectations are higher. I demand value. If it’s free and it’s rubbish then who cares it didn’t cost me anything, but when it’s free and it’s good it’s like you’ve been given a present and it isn’t even your birthday.