Alan Bennett at the NT

[theatrepaul]

There is always a frisson of excitement surrounding a new Alan Bennett play at the National and understandably so, for Bennett has delivered some of the NT’s major highlights over the years.

However his new play, People, is not I fear one of his best. I saw a preview performance and whilst there may yet be some changes, the structure of the play must surely now be in place.

I won't give anything of the plot away, but what is clear is that Alan Bennett has a bee in his bonnet which he lays before us in this play. The problem for me was too many strands which didn't come together, leaving the evening feeling bitty, at times laboured and contrived, despite the best efforts of the actors.

Of those on stage, Linda Bassett's character is definitely the most engaging.

Alas this Alan Bennett play will, not live long in the memory for me.

Sadly I left the theatre feeling underwhelmed and disappointed

[jaqs]

I liked all 3 women, though thought a bit more background from the younger sister could have helped. As Ive said elsewhere would have like them to have been in a different play.

Didnt like being lectured and the porn diversion felt as much like it was there to say 'look its not all serious' as it was an illustration of types of prostitution.

Didnt feel like it was a bad night, the scenery and especially the big change was fabulous as were the costumes and lighting.
But like you felt a bit disappointed.

[dgjbear]

He is incredibly over-rated. The language in his plays is so stilted. I far prefer his TV work.

[FrontRowDress]

Thought it was fine, if a little too cosy and preaching to the converted and only really took off with the farcical porn shoot. Strange this glut of plays about bequeathing property over the past year (In Basildon, Love Love Love, Last of the Hausmanns). More on the blog as usual.
People

[Nickhutson]

delete

[theatrepaul]

I have enjoyed seeing the Alan Bennett double bill of short works currently running alongside People at the NT.

Hymn is a short, slight piece musing on Bennett's relationship with religion, set to music and starring Alex Jennings who has every bit of Bennett down to a tee - his look, his voice and his mannerisms.

Cocktail Sticks is more substantial, where Bennett's parents feature strongly. It's a beautifully crafted hour of theatre, sometimes funny and often moving with a lovely, touching performance from Gabrielle Lloyd as Mam.

Both showcase the real quality of Bennett's writing, particularly Cocktail Sticks which I would argue is the highlight of this triumvirate of Bennett works currently playing

[theatrepaul]

For anyone interested, I read today that Hymn/Cocktail Sticks is to transfer to the Duchess from Mar 22