I have been to see 3 productions in the last week so thought I would give my brief reviews but keen to hear from others as to what to see and what to miss.
The Mentalists *** (3 Stars)
A 2 man play starring Stephen Merchant and Steffan Rhodri set in a hotel room. I enjoyed it, good dialogue and some very funny one liners. The first half is average but it improves a lot after the interval. Rhodri is excellent, Merchant is good but you can tell that it is his first play, he is a little too shouty! Only paid 17 notes for this and actually got moved into stall seats for gratis so all in all it was a good night out.
39 Steps **** (4 Stars)
A play I had been meaning to see for ages but only just got around to it and glad I did, went to see this as a matinee but the theatre was packed and enjoyed by everyone. Only 4 cast members playing a range of characters with a few individual performances being superb. It is very slapstick and silly but I really enjoyed this and there seemed to be a real range of ages in the audience too.
The Curious incident of the dog in the night-time ***** (5 stars)
The best play and production I think I have ever seen. The acting is superb, particularly the lead role. The set is used in inspiring and innovative ways. There is pathos throughout, a real mix of humour, intelligence and compassion. If you have the chance to see this then do not hesitate, absolutely gripping from start to finish.
So, other reviews please (even if they are plays that have been on for some time)
The Mentalists *** (3 Stars)
A 2 man play starring Stephen Merchant and Steffan Rhodri set in a hotel room. I enjoyed it, good dialogue and some very funny one liners. The first half is average but it improves a lot after the interval. Rhodri is excellent, Merchant is good but you can tell that it is his first play, he is a little too shouty! Only paid 17 notes for this and actually got moved into stall seats for gratis so all in all it was a good night out.
39 Steps **** (4 Stars)
A play I had been meaning to see for ages but only just got around to it and glad I did, went to see this as a matinee but the theatre was packed and enjoyed by everyone. Only 4 cast members playing a range of characters with a few individual performances being superb. It is very slapstick and silly but I really enjoyed this and there seemed to be a real range of ages in the audience too.
The Curious incident of the dog in the night-time ***** (5 stars)
The best play and production I think I have ever seen. The acting is superb, particularly the lead role. The set is used in inspiring and innovative ways. There is pathos throughout, a real mix of humour, intelligence and compassion. If you have the chance to see this then do not hesitate, absolutely gripping from start to finish.
So, other reviews please (even if they are plays that have been on for some time)
