Notes From Row H

Theatre Review – The National Theatre

Written by Nima Taleghani and directed by Indhu Rubasingham (the first play that she has directed as the National Theatre’s new Artistic Director), this refreshing interpretation of The Bacchae follows Euripides’ classic tragedy whilst subtly injecting it with contemporary themes. Some more prominent than others, the timeless themes of feminism and masculinity, satire, protest, displacement, sexuality and humour are centre stage. All of these components are effortlessly weaved into the storyline by Taleghani and makes the tragic plot into a bold and empowering retelling. 

The Bacchae themselves shone: their dancing and chanting helping to add to their intimidating aura. Particularly, Claire Perkins as Vida radiated charisma and authority, and her fellows Anna Russell Martin and Sharon Small gave incredible performances as Kira and Agave respectively. James McArdle as Pentheus and Ukweli Roach as Dionysus were magnetic and they gave incredibly emotionally rich performances: moving between charm and menace with speed and effortlessness.

The set (designed by Robert Jones) and lighting (designed by Oliver Fenwick) are another character in this play, and they easily match the incredible talent on the stage. The set shifts subtlety and the lighting features a dominant tilting ring that allows the audience to easily envision the palace and wilderness, as well as adding an intensity to the dialogue. 

Playing at the Olivier Theatre in the National Theatre from 29th September until 1^st November, The Bacchae is, at its core, a Greek tragedy but with a clever modern twist. It sublimely emphasises its modernity whilst honouring the ancient Greek themes that were first introduced by Euripides. This is such a unique piece of theatre, and as soon as it ended – I wished I could see it again!

Written by Helena Featherstone