UK BLOG

Phaedra's Love at the Arcola Theatre
The ancient classic has had a thorough reworking. Seneca adapted Euripides' tragedy of an illicit affair in the first century AD. This version was written by the late Sarah Kane, one of the most important British writers of the 90s, in her inimitably gritty style. Expect to emerge shocked, moved and perhaps wondering what the Greeks and Romans would have made of it all.
28 September - 22 October 2011 (arcolatheatre.com)

The Globe Mysteries at Shakespeare's Globe
Part of another excellent season that shows The Globe is about a lot more than Shakespeare, Tony Harrison has updated a medieval theatrical tradition and presents a selection of biblical stories in a modern style. The Mystery Plays were performed all over Europe in the Middle Ages and remained popular up to Shakespeare's own time. It will be fascinating to see a new take on this important part of theatrical history.
Until 1 October 2011 (shakespearesglobe.com)

The Tempest at the Theatre Royal Haymarket
Any historical round up surely must include Shakespeare. Trevor Nunn has been doing great things lately at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, with his direction more controlled than ever and his eye for casting talent infallible. His production of The Tempest starring Ralph Fiennes is sure to impress — Fiennes' magisterial stage presence makes Prospero the perfect role for him.
27 August - 29 October 2011(trh.co.uk)

One Man, Two Guvnors at the National Theatre and The Adelphi
If you are willing to queue for returns, you might still catch this smash-hit production at its original home — but don't panic, it transfers to the West End soon. Richard Bean's adaptation of Carlo Goldini's 18th-century commedia dell'arte-inspired farce has had the crowds rolling in the aisles. A lot depends on how appealing you find its star, James Corden, but the reviews have been great and audience reaction euphoric.
Until 19 September 2011 at the National Theatre, then 8 November - 25 Febuary 2012 at the Adelphi Theatre (nationaltheatre.org.uk)

Mixed Marriage at the Finborough Theatre
The fantastic Finborough continues its tradition of reviving forgotten classics with Mixed Marriage. A huge hit at the beginning of the 20th century, St John Ervine's play hasn't been seen in London for 90 years. It's the story of sectarian tension in Ireland before partition, and talented young director Sam Yates takes charge of the revival.
4 October 2011 - 29 October 2011 (finboroughtheatre.co.uk)

Decade at Commodity Quay, St Katharine Docks
Those looking for challenging new writing in London are always spoilt for choice. One of the most ambitious projects currently is Rupert Goold's Decade. Looking at the legacy of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the award-winning director hopes to bring us up to date with the aftermath of the tragedy. Working with an international team of writers, including Lynn Nottage and Christopher Shinn from America with Mike Bartlett and Alecky Blythe from the UK, a large cast will perform in a former trading hall in St Katharine's Dock.
1 September 2011 - 15 October 2011 (decadeheadlong.com)

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