Great film and music - poor choice of concessions!
by Amadea on 2024-03-11Meridian Hall - TorontoThe film was, of course, wonderful. The accompaniment with live orchestral music and chorus definitely enhanced the experience. I don’t think there was a bad seat in the venue, given the size of the screen and the acoustics. The experience was marred, however, by the unfortunate decision to sell popcorn as a concession. Throughout the performance it was impossible not to hear spectators crinkling their bags and rustling around as they dove in to grab their popcorn. Or opening their cans of pop or beer in the performance hall. It would have been preferable to open cans at the concession stand outside before bringing them into the hall and selling snacks other than popcorn. I would suggest pretzels and champagne (as they do at the Semper Oper in Dresden). There wasn’t even sparkling wine available, even though it was on the drinks list. I appreciate that the performance involved screening a film with musical accompaniment, but it might have been more appropriate to treat it as a concert from the point of view of bringing food and drink into the hall.