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 is not billed as one, it’s more of a musical than a play. Desperation, loneliness and violence are made light of by jolly song and dance (fine if you enjoy that feel good musical theme). The ticket prices may break ...

William ShakespeareDirected by Nicholas Hytner★★★★ Pros: Simon Russell-Beale’s superb performance in a superbly adapted play. Cons: Hardly any, slightly dragged towards the end of the second half. Our Verdict: Top-notch stuff from the National, and definitely worth seeing despite the fact that you may never have heard of it! Courtesy of Time  These days, I don’t look at the descriptions for the National’s shows before I book my tickets; I just assume that they are all going to be worth ...