We met for champagne in the Brumus Bar before the main event of the evening. The atmosphere amongst us was one of excited trepidation. We had gathered to watch the third performance of the new musical Marguerite. None of us had heard or read any reviews about it so we weren’t sure what to expect.
We were handed our programmes before making our way to the theatre and taking our seats. The auditorium was full. Being only the third performance there were obviously still a few gremlins in the wings as the show was ten minutes late starting. But as the lights dimmed, silence fell across the audience.
The opening scene was very solemn and the story unfolded and moved quickly. Marguerite (Ruthie Henshall) is the French mistress of a high-ranking German officer in Nazi-occupied Paris. She is very popular because she can get petrol coupons and nylons and so forth. But at her fortieth birthday party she meets musician Armand (Julian Ovenden) who falls hopelessly in love with her. The musical follows their secret affair and the ensuing tragedy.
Unlike other musicals, Marguerite is not full of high octane dance numbers. It is altogether far more solemn and intense. By the time the interval came we all felt quite emotionally drained and were pleased to be escorted down to the stalls bar where champagne and a lovely selection of sandwiches were waiting for us.
The SaVVy Club® London’s first Boutique Events Club where members experience VIP Social Events unavailable elsewhere.