This lively discussion features amusing anecdotes from the Theatre Royal, known for its whimsical nickname, 'Fireproof Theatre.' The hosts dive into quirky stories about Melania Trump and the absurdities of copyright law intertwined with baking. They tackle the science of aging and longevity, exploring blue zones and innovative training methods to stay balanced. The irony of failure is celebrated with tales of a miner who lived 137 years and a British club that thrived on mishaps. Expect humor around politics, memory, and the lighter side of life!
The rich history of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane illustrates the resilience of performance arts despite its dramatic past of fires and innovations.
Remarkable anecdotes like Richard Sheridan's duel and the story of Carlo the dog highlight the theatricality woven into the lives of historical figures associated with the theatre.
The podcast humorously explores the absurdity of legal disputes over names, exemplified by Slovenia's president's efforts regarding cakes named after Melania Trump.
Deep dives
The History of Theatre Royal Drury Lane
The Theatre Royal Drury Lane, founded in 1663, has a fascinating history marked by fires and innovations. It was referred to as the 'Fireproof Theatre' in 1794, yet ironically burned down in 1809. The theatre has been rebuilt multiple times, incorporating advanced technologies for its time, such as fire safety features and hydraulic systems that drew water from the River Thames. Remarkably, despite its tumultuous past, the theatre remains an iconic venue and has hosted numerous notable performances, including productions featuring famous clowns and spectacular stagecraft.
Dueling and Historical Anecdotes
The podcast delves into intriguing stories surrounding the theatre's historical figures, like Richard Sheridan, who famously quipped about taking a glass of wine while his theatre burned down. A notable detail is that Sheridan participated in a duel after eloping with a woman betrothed to another man, leading to significant changes in fencing practices due to the brutality observed. The discussion also highlights how dueling shifted from swords to pistols because of the increased risk of injury in sword fights. This backdrop illustrates the theatricality not just on stage, but in the lives surrounding the theatre itself.
Notable Performances and Their Impact
The podcast recounts a remarkable performance from 1803 called 'The Caravan', which is credited with saving the Drury Lane Theatre from financial ruin. It featured a live dog named Carlo who became a sensation after rescuing a boy in a staged flood on stage, drawing larger crowds than the leading actors. Carlo’s fame was such that he received a biography detailing his exploits, showcasing the extraordinary intersection of theatre and celebrity culture. This historical anecdote emphasizes the power of theatrical storytelling and live performance to captivate audiences.
The Haunted Legacy of Drury Lane
The episode includes entertaining accounts of the theatre's reputed hauntings, asserting that it is among the most haunted theatres worldwide. The ghosts associated with the theatre include notable figures like Joseph Grimaldi, who is said to kick performers if they do poorly on stage. The speakers discuss their personal experiences with staff who have reported seeing apparitions, such as mysterious blue legs, offering a mix of skepticism and delight in these supernatural stories. These ghost tales add a layer of intrigue to the theatre's already rich tapestry of history and performance.
Cultural Insights and Modern Connections
The discussion also touches on current cultural events, addressing the peculiar history of Slovenia's president who aimed to prevent local bakers from naming cakes after Melania Trump. This recounting reveals an amusing yet serious note on how names can influence branding and commerce. The podcast explores instances of unusual legal disputes and trademarks, like the complexity surrounding the naming of cakes and even the implications of selling pastries in certain locations. This analysis offers a humorous perspective on the intersections of culture, law, and commerce in a globalized world.
Live from the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, Dan, James, Anna and Andy discuss failure, theatrics, fraud and a highly litigious member of the Trump family.