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‘Munro’s writing is sharp & fearsome’: MARY – Hampstead Theatre

In London theatre, Opinion, Other Recent Articles, Plays, Reviews by Maryam PhilpottLeave a Comment

Rona Munro’s latest piece, Mary, treads similar ground to historical trilogy The James Plays in its examination of Mary Queen of Scots and the series of fateful activities that led to her being deposed in favour of her infant son in 1567. This superbly written 90-minute drama passes in the blink of an eye but the fate of a country, a Queen and a scandal-ridden woman are brilliantly contained within.

Diary of a theatre addict: Re-visiting shows and theatre trolls

In Features, London theatre, Opinion by Mark ShentonLeave a Comment

I’ve had a ‘slow’ week — or at least a slower one! By tonight, I’ll have seen just seven shows — but also three readings, too, so perhaps that makes ten. I’ve also done two big interviews — with singer Jane McDonald, ahead of her season in Cats in Blackpool, and with actor David Suchet, as he returns to the West End in The Importance of Being Earnest this coming week, both of which will run in The Stage on July 9.

The James Plays return in February 2016, touring after Edinburgh opening

In News, Plays, Regional theatre, Reviews, Scotland, Touring by Thom DibdinLeave a Comment

Rona Munro’s immense historical trilogy The James Plays – about the Kings James I, II and III of Scotland – will return to Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre in February 2016, then tour in a unique format nationally and internationally. The trilogy, originally produced by the NTS with the National Theatre and the EIF, will open for previews on 3 February 2016, opening on Saturday 6, and a full trilogy again on Saturday 13 February.

The best of the best of #theatre2014 round-ups

In Awards, Features, London theatre, Musicals, News, Opinion, Photos, Plays, Regional theatre, Reviews by Terri PaddockLeave a Comment

Can you keep up with all the 2014 theatrical year round-ups? I’ve rounded up the round-ups to give you a quick overview. The Guardian went ALL out looking back with a profusion of top 10 lists from its various critics, including eminence grise Michael Billington, fringe and festival queen Lyn Gardner, columnist Mark Lawson and […]