London
David Hare’s play is revived for the first time after opening in 1986
The cast of The Bay at Nice celebrated the show's opening night at the Menier Chocolate Factory last night.
David Hare's 1986 play is revived with a four-strong company led by Penelope Wilton, alongside Ophelia Lovibond, David Rintoul and Martin Hutson.
WhatsOnStage critic Sarah Crompton awarded the show four stars in her review, saying it was "a quiet pleasure, a shining little joy."
The Bay at Nice is set in Leningrad in 1956 where Valentina Nrovka must offer her opinion at the Hermitage on the authenticity of a Matisse painting, where her daughter – also an artist – meets her there.
It is the first London revival of Hare's work since it opened at the National Theatre. It focuses on a mother and daughter's fight for personal ideals and responsibilities. Richard Eyre directs the show, which runs until 4 May.