An outstanding and joyous show. Through Rachael Stirling we catch a glimpse of Sarah Siddons - the acclaimed 18th/19th century actress. Stirling - and the entire cast - are exceptional. They transport us backstage with a dazzling array of characters. Every single actor gets a scene-stealing moment - it's lovely to see a cast having so much fun.
It is Noises Off versus The Patriarchy as we discover how hard it is to be a actress (and authoress) in a world where female celebrity was only just beginning. It bounces between high drama and farce effortlessly. There are some very "actorly" meditations on what it means to be a performer, the price of fame, and how to handle a truculent audience.
The show runs for another week and is exceptional.
