53 replies to this topic

[RH1234]

So disappointing! Good prodcution and acting, but simply not a very good play. Shame to see Julie Walters in such a predictable role too.

[fringefan]

The reviews for this play, from both public and professionals, are still extremely mixed.  I'd have booked for it but couldn't even get onto the NT website when either of the Advance booking seasons opened and can't get there in time for day seats, so shall have to hope for a reasonably-priced return or a standby.  The range of comments makes me want to see it so as to make up my own mind (and, possibly, to find myself one of those who rave about it) but not at the cost of the more expensive tickets which are all that remain.

[Front Row Dress]

I was so looking forward to this that I suppose I was always going to be disappointed. It really should have be mounted in the Cottesloe on a single static set without the huge expectations of the Lyttleton and the starry cast. I had fun, but there are major plot holes and the cast seem to be acting in different plays at times. More moaning on my blog of you can be bothered http://frontrowdress...al-theatre.html

[Pharaoh's number 2]

I saw this yesterday afternoon and thought it was incredibly well acted. Helen McCrory is sensational, and Julie Walters, whilst v Julie Walters at times (I think the role was written with her in mind though), shows that she can really act at points in act 2. What's nice is that each actors has a reasonably large part- it could've been the case that we have our 3 'stars', and then the pool boy has one line, but it's not like that. We actually get to know the characters- we may not feel for them that strongly (though I was moved at points), but we get to know them.

It is too long- ran at 2hrs45, and some points do drag, and the plot isn't particularly strong- there are holes in it. But there is a very good play in there somewhere. It just needs a bit of jigging about and re-writing. But it's not a bad play at all, and it's def worth going to, if only for the cast. Once again, Howard Davies manages to get some very very good performances.

[Alexandra]

Received a massive rave from Kate Kellaway in the Observer, who loved the play too.

[fringefan]

For anyone in my position (still looking for £12 seats as missed out originally), it might help to know that thanks to Honoured Guest's post of earlier today in another thread, I checked and found that a handful of these tix had reappeared for performances next week.  When I checked there were seats for Tuesday evening, Wednesday matinee and Saturday matinee.

[richard2711]

I quite enjoyed this. I thought the cast were terrific, especially Helen and Rory. My only criticism would be that Rory's character was a little too much of a dramatic mummy's boy for my liking, although this is merely the writing, as I thought Rory played the character brilliantly. Just the right balance of comedy and pathos overall for me though, and I did enjoy it.

By the way, did anyone go to the "In Conversation with Julie Walters" on Friday? I went before I saw the play. One of the best hours I've ever spent in the theatre. She is adorable, and naturally hilarious. I have always loved her, but this session just confirmed it. She's wonderful.

[mosiemo]

richard2711, on 30 June 2012 - 11:51 PM, said:

I quite enjoyed this. I thought the cast were terrific, especially Helen and Rory. My only criticism would be that Rory's character was a little too much of a dramatic mummy's boy for my liking, although this is merely the writing, as I thought Rory played the character brilliantly. Just the right balance of comedy and pathos overall for me though, and I did enjoy it.

By the way, did anyone go to the "In Conversation with Julie Walters" on Friday? I went before I saw the play. One of the best hours I've ever spent in the theatre. She is adorable, and naturally hilarious. I have always loved her, but this session just confirmed it. She's wonderful.

Like others I enjoyed the performances but not the play, which was a disappointment.

Yes, I went to the 'In Conversation' and thoroughly enjoyed it.  I've been to previous 'Conversations' but enjoyed this the most as Julie was fabulous.  OT but it was great to hear about the history of the Two Soups sketch - as you say, she was hilarious.  I particularly loved this response to a gentleman's question: 'Oh, you can come again - are you attractive?  Oh, you're old...'!!

[Bambodoy]

The play is not bad at all, maybe slightly under-achieved, but still good fun. Overall, this is a truly meticulous production with a fantastic set design, great direction and, most importantly, luminous performances from Helen McCrory and Julie Walters. I would definitely recommend it.  

[fringefan]

Yes, the play, whilst rather meandering, is very entertaining and has some great lines.  I shall certainly look out for the author's next.  Very glad I bagged a returned Travelex seat at short notice but think I might have to resign myself to forking out a little more for long plays in future as the longer you sit in that confined area, the more you want to squirm with discomfort.