All About Eve, Noël Coward Theatre - ★★★★★ - Until May 11, 2019


Here we have another wonderful re-imagining of a classic film and it sticks pretty close to the original scenario and script. Ivo van Hove, who created the stunning version of “Network” last year, now turns his hand to “All About Eve.” Parts of the play appear on screens as camera-men meander through the action and into the wings. I found it fascinating and very effective. That's all very interesting but how did Gillian Anderson measure up to Bette Davis? Brilliantly. She doesn't mimic Davis but creates her own version of Margo. We totally believe in her and the drawl she uses sounds as if it comes from fifty cigarettes a day! Her drunk scene is sensational. Lily James is terrific as Eve, from a sweet innocent fan she creates a monster as she worms her way into Margo's milieu. As the world-weary critic who almost unmasks her, Stanley Townsend is horrible - a compliment! Julian Ovendon (Bill) and Monica Dolan (Karen) lend excellent support with a large company whizzing around, moving furniture and portraying a myriad of supporting characters. If you can manage to get a ticket to see this, you certainly won't come away disappointed.

 Reviewed by D.S.J.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆☆ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Mon - Sat: 7:30 pm, Thu & Sat: 2:30 pm
Noël Coward Theatre
Nearest tube: Leicester Square
allabouteveplay.com
Map & Location: 85-88 St Martin's Ln, Covent Garden, London WC2N 4AP, UK

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