In my round-up of theatre in 2017, I warned 2018 that it had “big shoes to fill”. Not only did 2018 not need the door to be opened, but it also didn’t even need anyone to hold its coat.
What’s Debbie looking forward to in December 2018?
Opening in London this month is the transfer of the NT’s Nine Night (now at Trafalgar Studios), Jailbirds at the Etcetera Theatre, Pinocchio at The Albany, One For The Road at the Rosemary Branch, Orpheus at Battersea Arts Centre and Pinter 5 & 6 will arrive at the Harold Pinter Theatre.
‘One of the most captivating productions of the year’: CUCKOO – Soho Theatre
Lisa Carroll’s Papatango shortlisted debut Cuckoo has the subject of identity stamped on its DNA. It raises questions about the value of where you are from and what does moving away from there do to you.
‘Sharp & well-observed debut’: CUCKOO – Soho Theatre
Lisa Carroll’s Cuckoo, her new debut play about Irish teens, has some exciting dialogue but its production doesn’t quite deliver.
‘Will leave audiences uncomfortable, nostalgic & heartbroken’: CUCKOO – Soho Theatre
Cuckoo by Lisa Carroll has all the elements of a wonderful coming-of-age story. Set in a small Irish town, this play packs many a punch, giving us a raw look at what it means to not fit in, to feel lonely in your hometown and how as a teenager, the need to be liked can seem more important than anything else.
‘Brilliantly captures the challenges of growing up’: CUCKOO – Soho Theatre ★★★★
Set in Crumlin, a suburb of Dublin, writer Lisa Carroll’s play Cuckoo follows Iona and Pingu over a couple of fateful days when they announce that they are moving to London. It is a decision which catapults them into the spotlight in a way that they never anticipated.
‘Never drags or fails to hold our attention’: CUCKOO – Soho Theatre
Exploring what it is to be young in Ireland today, Lisa Carroll’s debut play Cuckoo comes roaring to life at Soho Theatre, leading us without preamble into the world of best friends – and social outcasts – Iona (Caitriona Ennis) and Pi
A truly contemporary coming of age story’: CUCKOO – Soho Theatre ★★★★
Lisa Carroll’s razor-sharp play Cuckoo is vividly brought to life thanks to Debbie Hannan’s perceptive and emotionally engaging production.