So, I was lucky enough to be able to watch Cyrano de Bergerac at The Playhouse Theatre, starring James McAvoy a few days ago. I’ve been meaning to write about it for a couple of days, because it so unlike any version i’ve ever seen before. Jamie Lloyd’s direction is bold and beautiful, but it’s Martin Crimp’s translation of Rostand that’s the real star. Think performance poetry, cut with beat-boxing, and the competitive air of a rap battle, and you’ll get the tiniest hint of just how energetic and dynamic this adaptation is. The entire ensemble cast is outstanding, and the opening scene setting allows them to establish each of their characters. It’s a diverse cast in every sense and they seem to be having just as much fun as the audience. Ragueneau (played by Michele Austin) is my favourite. But the moment Cyrano (played perfectly - and without prosthetic - by James McAvoy) steps into the limelight the energy on the stage cranks up a notch.
[Spoilers below the cut]