MIF: The Life and Death of Marina Abramović

Just came back from the most amazing show of MIF 2011: The Life and Death of Marina Abramović is absolutely astounding! World class! LaDoMA is a true performance. Everything comes together: performative arts, music, words, interpretation. Willem Dafoe is absolutely magical. Antony is so elegant and a vocal master. He can do whatever he wants with his voice, a jealousy for so many who rely on Studio Production tricks. The dramatic story of Marina was lightened by the brilliant work of director Robert Wilson, but it still resonated a lot in my heart as I could identify with many of the situations experienced by Marina when growing up.

I feel truly blessed for having experienced such a fantastic show. Loving Manchester life each day more. Great diversity and so much quality.

Les Misérables

At last, after two years and a half in this country, I finally fulfiled one of my dreams: to watch a musical theatre show in the UK. 

The choice was on the 25th year anniversary of "Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo. 

The place: The Lowry, in Salford Quays, Manchester. 

The price of the tickets was a bit intimidating and by the time we bought them there weren't even any more of the cheaper ones available. Still, we thought it was the kind of show that involves so much work and people, and with all the referrals we had read, it had to be worthwhile.

And it was definitely well worth the time and money. The venue was totally packed, as expected.

The singers were excellent, the setting breathtaking, full of special effects I had never seen in theatre and the music... well, timeless. The acting was top notch quality and there were a few who really surprised me in a positive way. The falsetto songs sung by "Jean Valjean" and the little girl who played "Cosette" were fantastic. 

And just for a sneak peak, here's a video promo that includes many of the actors that were part of the cast of the Manchester show.

All in all, an experience to repeat many, many times.