Profile for neelsen

Frapperia, Ed Bennett was very good as Oliver. I felt his interpretation was shaded, and could believe that Oliver's actions arose from deep seated insecurity. He never descended into caricature and his actions never felt like mere plot device. >> How was Ed Bennett's Oliver?

I thought it was a fairly ho-hum production of a play that really didn't need to be revived. I went because I've never seen a live production of a Noel Coward play (I missed BLITHE SPIRIT which a friend of mine really liked), and despite it's untimely demise I'd absolutely loved David Cromer's BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS. Unfortunately this turned about be be at the level of THE ROYAL FAMILY, with the set turning out to be the most interesting aspect of the production just like in AFTER MISS JULIE...

I saw the show yesterday and agree with Dave1606's review in every detail. It was an arrestingly visual production, that made very imaginative use of the space (and a stunning set), and I must make specific note of the amazing lighting and excellent sound design. The costumes were effective and nicely complemented many of the modern day references in the interpretation. The cast was good-to-very-good, but for me it was Sam Mendes's triumph, very ably supported by an excellent production team.