A Night at the Theatre

Every Christmas we try and catch a concert at Manchester’s Bridgwater
Hall. This year it was the music of Rodgers, Hammerstein and Hart – my
mothers choice. Great seats, side balcony in the circle – stunning view! I
let the music and singing wash over me as I sketched, although I did stop
for ‘Some Enchanted Evening’ from South Pacific which I absolutely love. Unfortunately it was a fairly average concert…so much so, my partner retired to
the bar half-way through the first half – that said, he’s not really into
musicals! 

Both sketches are panoramic views, but the second one
looks up to the complicated roof structure – not down (so much) on the
orchestra and audience. A black wash was added later (it’s still drying
as I write this), to try and clarify what I’ve drawn, as it’s fairly
complex – it’s a big concert hall – especially as drawn in the near
dark. Outside my comfort zone with these drawings – too many people, no splashes of colour…but a good way to pass
time and I do find it exciting (and challenging!) to try and capture such a busy view within a finite time scale.

First half

Second half

Last post of the year from me, so I’ll take this
opportunity to wish anyone reading this very best wishes for New Year and much happy urban sketching in 2014! It’s my first full year being involved with this vibrant and engaging USk community and I am so enjoying being a part of it…thanks and best wishes to all of you.