Reader Reviews
Paul (Cottesloe (National Theatre), West End)
Back to Show Details| Score | Comment | Date |
 | Utterly compelling piece and stunning performances from Adam Godley, Pearce Quigley and Lloyd Owen. An unforgettable evening. - 80.177.231.164) | 09 Jan 06 |
| Good acting and an interesting set, but I thought the play was silly and needlessly offensive. We are asked not only to believe that 'Jeshua' survived crucifixion but also that he was then used as part of a plot by James his brother to stop Saul persecuting his followers. Peter knows this but still accepts martyrdom!? There is some interesting stuff about Paul pushing Christ's teachings to the Gentiles (no circumcision needed, no need to follow dietary laws etc), but Brenton's hostility to Christianity comes through with Jeshua being 'diseased' because of his marriage to Mary Magdalene and his mother being referred to as a 'cow'. Some simulated buggery would have made at least this audience member a little happier. - 194.203.215.254) | 03 Jan 06 |
| Unglitzy and honest examination of the idea of faith. Paul well portrayed by Adam Godley [ but how I would have loved to see Paul Rhys play the part] Cast v good all round, set ok, modern dress and I wonder if the play would actually be viable in 'Biblical ' dress. We are so used to this kind of suggested relevance that the dialogue passes but it is a bit clunky at times and would not pass if offered as 'Biblical' if you see what I mean..Anyway, I recommend if only because it is so much better than the Leigh or the Edgar which also try to address faith and be relevant. - 81.155.234.214) | 10 Nov 05 |
