Howard Brenton, based on Barnaby Martin’s book Hanging Man Directed by James MacDonald ★★★★ Pros: An intelligent script which portrays the life of an important figure both realistically and with great humour. Benedict Wong breathes life into the central role. Cons: A slow start makes it difficult to fully engage in the first half. Our Verdict: This show isn’t ground-breaking, but it explores important issues with terrific insight while incorporating nice performances and a surprising number of laugh-out-loud moments. Courtesy ...

Amelia Bullmore Directed by Anna Mackmin★★★★ Pros: A play about life and friendship that is easy to relate to, funny and heart-warming. It is brilliantly acted by a high calibre cast and the costumes and sound design realistically evoke the passing of time. Cons: There are a lot of unnecessary set changes which chops up the flow of the drama and as there is no crew, the actors make the changes themselves which gets a bit distracting. Our Verdict: Guaranteed to ...

Everything Theatre blogger Rachel Proctor gives her opinion on the treatment of younger people in theatre audiences, concluding that a little more consideration wouldn't go amiss...

everything theatre originally reviewed this production in the Hampstead Theatre. It will transfer to the Duke of York’s Theatre from 9th January 2013, where it is currently booking until 6th April 2013: http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-judas-kiss/duke-of-yorks/David HareDirected by Neil Armfield★★★ Pros: Good leads, an important message and beautiful lighting. Cons: The script leaves much to be desired, despite the aforementioned important messaging. Our Verdict: Not the best script, but good performances pull up what could otherwise be a poor show. Courtesy of Alastair Muir ...

William ShakespeareDirected by Edward Hall★★★★ Pros: Energetic production, executed with surgical precision by a talented all-male cast. Cons: The plot is fairly convoluted, and involves an unresolved resuscitation. Could be a little shorter. Our Verdict: A standout production which deserves to be watched and enjoyed. Courtesy of Manuel Harlan for Exeunt Magazine The Winter’s Tale was written towards the end of Shakespeare’s career. With a tragic, heartbreaking first half, and a light-hearted, pastoral and comedic second half, it is sometimes ...

Original screenplay by Colin Welland, adapted by Mike BartlettDirected by Edward Hall★★★★ Pros: A solid cast and some moments that work amazingly well. Plus the awesome theme tune. Cons: Wore me out a little just watching that much running! Our Verdict: About the most patriotic piece of theatre you could hope to come out of Britain. Courtesy of Tristram Kenton for The Guardian I feel we should deal first with the criticisms that have been made of this production and ...

Richard NelsonDirected by Roger Michell★★★★ Pros: Fantastic cast who work excellently together and ticket prices for the Hampstead Theatre are brilliant. Cons: Underdeveloped ideas leave the audience wanting a bit more from the characters and the play. Our Verdict: Well worth a trip up to Swiss Cottage, ticket prices are very worthy for these top performances. Courtesy of Tristram Kenton for the Guardian Deep in the heart of North London lies the Hampstead Theatre. It is a modern and comfortable ...