14. You have just watched a great play. Exchange your impressions.

• Natalie, what’s your impression of the play?

• Everything is just wonderful! The play itself, the staging, the stage effects, the acting were too marvelous for words.

• You are right, especially the acting – that was simply beyond description.

• You know, at times I completely forgot myself. And what appreciative audience! Have you ever heard such bursts of applause from spectators every time the curtain went down?

• I’ve never seen audience applaud so much before. I think there were more than five curtain calls. I clapped so much that my palms hurt even now.

• Each actor performs his part so realistically, so true to life.

• No wonder. The company of this theatre is really outstanding.

• Who did you like the most?

• I liked the actress playing Anna.

• What did you like in her playing?

• She played very emotionally. It seemed that she didn’t play this role, but was real Anna, Vassa's daughter.

• And did you like the scenery?

• Yes. It was superb.

• What did you like in the scenery?

• I liked furniture very much. It reproduced that epoch very exactly.

• What else did you like in the theatre?

• I liked the auditorium. It was beautiful.

• Oh yes. I agree with you.

• I think we should watch some play next time together.

• It would be wonderful!

15. Your friend has just returned from Great Britain. Discuss Russian and British theatres.

• Hello, Svetlana! How are you?

• Hello, Natalie! I’m fine, thanks. And you?

• I’m fine too. I heard that you have just returned from Great Britain, haven’t you?

• Yes, it’s true. I liked it very much.

• What do you say about British theatres?

• They are perfect. I got a lot of experience. Theatres in Britain differ from Russian theatres. There is saturated atmosphere of love and inspiration.

• How are the actors?

• The acting is lovely.

• What is your favourite British theatre?

• My favourite British theatre is the Royal Opera House. It stages operas and ballets. Operas are sung in the original languages. The theatre has its own orchestra which plays for the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet.

• And what do you say about Russian theatres? What is your favourite Russian theatre?

• My favourite Russian theatre is the Drama Theatre.

• Why?

• I think it’s very beautiful.

• Yes, the building of this theatre is made in the old fashion.

• How do you find the play by the actors?

• I think they play brilliantly.

• I remember that you and I went to one first-rate performance.

• Oh, yes.

• Did you like that?

• Of course. It was great. The play struck me very strongly. The idea of stage was very interesting.

• The play is very much a situation from real life.

• Yes, I completely agree with you.

• Thank you for your frankness. I was pleased to hear your opinion on British and Russian theatres. See you tomorrow. Bye.

• Bye-bye.