The trip was on Thursday 20th March and central Bristol was beset by demonstrations against the Iraq war (which had not started at that time). Protestors were lying in the roads and police were diverting all traffic away from the city centre. Our coach had to find its way through a maze of back streets to get within walking distance of the theatre. Full marks to the driver for getting us there.

Despite the hold up, there was still time for a quick drink before the show started so it all worked out rather well in the end. Actually, it helped set the scene for the chaos and urgency of the fall of Saigon rather well.

The touring show loses nothing compared to the West End version and the spectacle provided by the costumes, sets and effects was full of impact. The acting and singing were excellent and added up to a powerfull and moving experience (Madam Butterfly in Hot Pants).

The roads were passable by the time we came out, so we lost no time in quitting Bristol and getting back to Pewsey with another succesful theatre trip under our belts :-)

Review by Andy Vowles.