London Assurance

Genre

Comedy

Author

By Dion Boucicault

National Theatre - Olivier Theatre, London
12th April 2010

A dazzling show on the South Bank

A comedy verging on farce, written in 1841 but directly related to Restoration comedy, by an Irishman with a French name, it’s little wonder that mix-ups and confusion abound at the National’s latest triumphant revival. And make no mistake, it is a triumph, an absolutely dazzling show, with a scintillating cast that to my mind is one of the best things on the South Bank for a long time. Part of the usual captioned performance benefits is a detailed plot synopsis; read it but don’t even try to recall the twists and turns of plot/counterplot, disguise/unmasking, who loves whom; just go with the rollicking flow comfortably led by the brilliant cast. From leads, including Simon Russell Beale, Fiona Shaw and a deliciously doddery old Richard Briers, down to the support - notably a well-named ‘Cool’ valet. But they’re all terrific. There’s even a ‘Shakespeare’s Globe’ dance or two - Richard Briers’ faltering steps are worth the ticket price alone. There’s another STAGETEXT captioned performance on June 28th - put it on your must-see list immediately.

[Terry Emery]

Submitted: 13/04/10

Current captioned productions at venue

National Theatre - Olivier Theatre, London
12th April 2010

I’ve never been a fan of the Olivier Theatre: its vast stage makes it quite hard for the audience to connect with the actors, and there always appears to be a lack of atmosphere. It seems I am likely to enjoy productions at the NT’s adjoining theatres.

But, I have to say that LONDON ASSURANCE was easily the best play I have ever seen at the Olivier. Upon entering the auditorium, I was not in the right frame of mind because I had received a couple of bad news; thankfully, this play quickly dispelled my blues and had me laughing my head off. What riotous fun! What a great tonic! You could say that after the play, I left London with a sense of Assurance.

[Fiorenzo Cecere]

Submitted: 14/04/10

Current captioned productions at venue