A CRITICAL STAGE
Theatre at the Tabard
31st May 0 17th June 2023
“1942 and in a wartime London of blackouts, rationing and the Blitz, James Agate, famous author and theatre critic, refuses to change his lifestyle. But if the bombs can’t curb his passion for hard work, high living and illicit encounters, there are soon some bombshells threatening to blow his world apart.
Agate has written a damning review of Gwen, a prominent actress who confronts him in a lively battle of words. He is looked after by Smike, a young and tolerant houseboy and he also has a volatile relationship with his secretary, Leo, an Austrian Jewish refugee. Agate’s increasingly careless behaviour is not going unnoticed with his bosses at the Sunday Times newspaper…
A world premiere, Gareth Armstrong’s play is based on real life events; James Agate was a hugely influential English writer, theatre, music and literary critic in the mid–twentieth century. A self–educated polymath, prolific author and indiscreet homosexual, his impact on the theatre, arts criticism and the cultural life of Britain was enormous.
A Critical Stage is an amusing and provocative exploration of the roles of critic and artist.”
Review by Richard Lambert, 4 Stars
A new play, and a comedy, about “us” and “them” – the critics and the artists. How fabulous! A concept designed to engage which it does in bucketfulls! Soooooo funny! In a low-key quiet manner. The “Austrian” referred to as “a German” by others, has dialogue that wouldn’t be out of place in “Hello, Hello”, and the critic has upset his very good friend by publishing a bad review.
Loving the critic claiming he would face death better than a life without his work. Isn’t that the truth! For all of us who suffered the lockdown impositions, and this play was written in lockdown, this strikes straight to the heart!
With a fabulolus Set and the most amazing paint-job of 3D wooden panelling, suitably placed lighting which in the 1st half indicates time of day really well, this production has got high values. The costumes are really good but especially for Gwen who comes out in a new costume every time we see her – including rings on her fingers which, for the sharp eyed, imply not all went well with her girlfriend. She’s the friend we’d all want to unexpectedly ring your doorbell.
A very witty script that lands squarely with a couple of surprises supported by larger than life character actors!
A must-see production of great entertainment.
Photo credit: Charles Flint
Cast:
Jeremy Booth James Agate
Barbara Wilshere Gwen
David Acton Leo
Sam Hill Smike
Creatives:
Producer Simon and Sarah Reilly for Take Note
Theatre
Director Gareth Armstrong
Associate Director Johnnie Griffiths
Designer Hazel Owen
Costume Designer Alice McNicholas
A CRITICAL STAGE
by GARETH ARMSTRONG
Theatre at the Tabard
2 Bath Road
Chiswick
London
W4 1LW
31st May – 17th June
Tuesday – Friday 7:30pm
Saturdays 2pm & 6pm
Sundays 2pm
Tickets:
Previews: £19.50/£15.50
2nd to 11th June: £23.50/£19.50
Final week: £25.50/£21.50
Box Office: 020 8995 6035
tabard.org.uk
Social Media Details
Twitter: @TheatreAtTabard
Instagram: @TheatreAtTabard
Facebook: @TheatreAtTabard