Really, this production cements Lloyd’s reputation as a dynamic and thrilling young director. His vision here is glorious and he sees to it that it is properly and apparently effortlessly executed. This could easily be the best New Musical of 2014. It will certainly take some topping.
An unmissable night with one of the world’s greatest living stage actresses.
This genius production ought not be missed. Sell body parts to see it and to revel in its ecstasy
Blurred Lines is one of the best things to play at the National Theatre in the last six years. It is a significant and provocative work of great sweep and scope.
Despite the first Act moving somewhat slowly, Act Two is when the musical really takes off with added cheekiness, inuendo and ridiculously outrageous farce, prompting much uncontrolled laughter from the audience. As a headlining show in the From Page to Stage series, Before the Night is Through is a delightfully jolly jaunt and proof that British musical theatre is alive and well.
Frayn is a genius and a clever wordsmith to boot. He orchestrates the silliness here with a precision that is formidable and even now, almost forty years on, some of his traps are so well laid that they prove genuinely surprising when sprung.
Kempner is the real deal in every way – his timing is impeccable, his sense of comedy immaculate, his ability to impersonate or portray the essence of the work of others inspired and unflinching, his diction and vocal dexterity extraordinarily impressive. Add his matinee idol looks and you have – unquestionably – a star.
It is incredibly well worth seeing. It’s not a play for everyone, but if you get on Goodchild’s train, and ride with it, there is plenty to enjoy and savour.
