REVIEW: The Philanthropist, Trafalgar Studios ✭✭
A combination of bad casting and lacklustre directing from Simon Callow leads to an ultimately disappointing evening; the greatest act of philanthropy would be to scrap it and start again.
A combination of bad casting and lacklustre directing from Simon Callow leads to an ultimately disappointing evening; the greatest act of philanthropy would be to scrap it and start again.
Alas poor Sherlock, we know it well. Even in the opening scenes of this ingenious production, it was clear that Andrew Scott would more than match his TV co-star Cumberbatch.
At a time when the role of the arts is as hotly discussed as ever, Stoppard’s play could not be timelier. Travesties both baffles and intrigues; a masterful piece of writing that will leave you thinking all the way home.
Whilst this adaptation of La Ronde is a brilliant concept, it is rich in style and yet lacking in substance.
We asked our reviewers to take a look at 2016 and to nominate some stand out productions for 2016. Danny Coleman-Cooke replied with the following:- Guys and Dolls, Savoy Theatre This revival did great justice to one of theatre’s finest ever musicals – the all-star cast included David Haig, Jamie Parker and Sophie Thompson. Infused with stunning choreography from Andrew Wright and Carlos Acosta, it fully deserved its critical acclaim and resulting UK tour. Cuttin It, Young Vic A fantastic play tackling the important issue of FGM, Cuttin It starts as a good-humoured tale of childhood friendship but turns into something much darker. Simple yet powerful in its staging, it was the most emotional production I saw all year, provoking floods of tears from the audience. Richard Gadd: Monkey See Monkey Do, Soho Theatre My previous experiences of Richard Gadd had left me fairly cold, finding him a bit crude … Read more
This is a show well worth watching, at a venue that is becoming a byword for fun and vibrant festive musicals. Check it out before it goes!
Johnson’s writing is complex and masterful, switching frequently and seamlessly between light and shade. The jokes hit the mark and are well timed, whilst many of the exchanges between Richard and Ellie are achingly sad.
This is an entertaining and skillfully staged production of one of Monteverdi’s most popular operas. Make sure you go and see it at a theatre near you; you’re sure of an epic night…