When Was The Last Time I Watched An Oscar Show?

The last time I watched a part of the Oscars, the people were sitting at tables like at a restaurant.
Tonight, I tuned in for the hell of it and saw they are seated like they are in a theater. My wife said they haven't done that for decades.
Well, I am not a movie person and saw only 2 movies this year- G-Force, with the kids and Hangover with Cathy. For some reason, they were not nominated. I was just shocked.