And More New Plays

TILL THE STARS LOOK DOWN***** (Haymarket Theatre,London until 27 September).  I saw this at the National Theatre early last year and was most happy to see it again. It’s a super play; well written, beautifully acted and with a lovely set. Written by Beth Steel and directed by Bija~Sheibani, it shows a family at the wedding of Sylvia (Sinead Matthews) who is marrying Marek (Julian Kostov), a Polish immigrant. Sylvia’s sisters help her to get ready, assisted by Aunty Carol (Dorothy Atkinson). 

Pic Manuel Harlan

As drink is consumed, members of the family begin to reveal their secrets including their racism towards Marek. Taking place in the former mining town of Shirebrook, Nottinghamshire, the family is still bitter about the strikes which saw the two brothers on either side. The acting is excellent and the director has kept the action moving around. There are dramatic scenes mixed with humorous dialogue. See it if you can.

BURLESQUE **** (Savoy Theatre, London, until 6 September) is a lively musical based on the 2010 film which starred Cher and Christine Aqilera. The film’s original writer and director,Steven Antim, has adapted his movie and the result is spectacular. 

Pamela Raith

Ali (Jess Foley) comes to New York City to find her mother. She gets involved in the underground world of burlesque, where she discovers her own talents as well as her mother. There are some excellent voices on show and exciting choreography.

Written by CARLIE NEWMAN