West End/ SOLT venues
We’ve expanded our definition of West End to include those big venues that whilst not physically in the West End, budget wise are very similar. Think of places like Southbank Centre or Royal Albert Hall. Generally these are the venues that are members of the Society of London Theatre and eligible for all the big award ceremonies. Whilst we don’t attend lots of these shows, now and again it’s fun to savour the glitz and glamour they can offer.
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The Magistrate, National Theatre
Arthur Wing PineroDirected by Timothy Sheader ★★★★ Pros: Well-directed with excellent performances, a great set and some big laugh out loud moments. A great production in every respect. Cons: None really, but it’s not ground-breaking and it’s not the best…
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In the Republic of Happiness, Royal Court
Martin Crimp Directed by Dominic Cooke ★★★★ Pros: This is a brilliantly acted, humorous, confrontational, thought-provoking play which continues to mature long after you leave the theatre. Playwright Martin Crimp is the real star of the show. Cons: The extremes of human…
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The Animals and Children Took to the Streets, National Theatre
Written and Directed by Suzanne AndradePresented by 1927★★★★ Pros: Finest use of projection I have ever seen and great ensemble work. Cons: Some adult viewers might be fooled into thinking this is a kids’ show. Our Verdict: This is brilliant…
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Privates on Parade, Noel Coward Theatre
Peter NicholsDirected by Michael Grandage★★★★ Pros: A high-quality West End production with lots of laughs from a camped up, top-drawer cast. A play with lots of interest, an abundance of back stories and a layer of fun. Cons: Though it…
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The Effect, National Theatre
Lucy PrebbleDirected by Rupert Goold★★★★ Pros: Excellent performances, a beautiful, clinical design and a script that proves Prebble isn’t a one trick pony. Cons: Prebble clearly has an opinion about the issues involved, and consequently it can feel more like…
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Berenice, Donmar Warehouse
Jean Racine in a new version by Alan HollinghurstDirected by Josie Rourke★★ Pros: Passionate performances by Anne-Marie Duff and Stephen Campbell Moore. The set was visually striking and the quality of the production at the Donmar is excellent. Cons: This…
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Hedda Gabler, The Old Vic
Henrik Ibsen, in a version by Brian FrielDirected by Anna Mackmin★★★★ Pros: A first class production – the cast is fabulous, the set and lighting design are stunning and the play itself is a masterpiece worthy of its place amongst…
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This House, National Theatre
everything theatre originally reviewed this production in the Cottesloe Theatre at the National. It will transfer into the Olivier Theatre at the National on 23rd February 2013, where it is currently booking until 15th May 2013: http://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/this-house James GrahamDirected by Jeremy…