A slick and funny provocation.

A fearless and captivating adaptation. Fiercely intelligent staging and spellbinding multimedia effects combine to make a masterpiece out of a masterpiece.

A thrilling, exciting and highly original musical which has far more depth than I remember from the film.

Lucy Kirwood Directed by Lyndsey Turner ★★★★★ Pros: An excellent script addresses some fascinating issues, with top-notch performances and a stunning set. What more could you ask for?! Cons: At over 3 hours the play is long, but to be honest I don’t know what you could lose – I really have no complaints. Our Verdict: I suspect this play is going to go down as one of the best new plays this year. I’d thoroughly recommend you try to ...

Anton Chekhov, in a new version by John Donnelly Directed by Blanche McIntyre  ★★★★  Pros: A modern script that pulls Chekhov into the 21st century, with some fantastic, natural performances and a great set.  Cons: Still a little hard to follow for those unversed in Chekhov. Takes a little while to get going.  Our Verdict: An enjoyable show and a great one to see if you want a digestible introduction to Chekhov. Courtesy of Tristam Kenton for Headlong  Those of you ...

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 a lecture than an exploration in places. Our Verdict: Another excellent Cottesloe production from the NT and Headlong. Definitely worth seeing for the emotional journeys, even if you have no interest in the topic of mental illness and neuroscience. Credit: ...

Euripides, in a new version by Mike BartlettDirected by Mike Bartlett★★★★ Pros: Bartlett seldom puts a foot wrong, and his adaptation of Medea is no exception. Cons: Perhaps overly and unnecessarily keen to keep some of the aspects of the classic tragedy format intact. Our Verdict: A brilliant introduction to a timeless classic, with an incredibly strong central performance from Rachael Stirling. Courtesy of Manuel Harlan for The Guardian Mike Bartlett has, to be honest, had a pretty awesome few ...