The Art Newspaper

Blockbuster exhibitions bring in the crowds but actually seeing the works on display in a jostling throng requires stamina, dexterity and, more often than not, a long neck. The Royal Academy of Arts in London (RA) has, however, hit upon a solution to help very keen visitors see its packed-out "Manet, Portraying Life" show (until 14 April). "The RA has organised a series of exclusive Sunday evening viewings in March and April, to allow visitors to see the exhibition without the crowds," says a press statement. The usual full-price admission fee is £15. But for the princely sum of £30, visitors to the "exclusive Sunday" event get to see the show (minus the masses), along with a drink in the John Madjeski Fine rooms and a hand-held multimedia guide narrated by curator MaryAnn Stevens.

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