Faith, Hope and Charity, National Theatre - ★★★★★ - Until October 12, 2019


Alexander Zeldin has written a play that deals with an important social issue, but he has avoided the trap of turning it into a polemic. We are introduced to a cast of characters who become real people and whom we deeply care about. These are individuals and not simply representations of a social issue. Cecilia Noble as Hazel, the core of this community who finally finds her voice, gives us a brilliantly convincing performance. Nick Holder as Mason, who tries to bring together the disparate and desperate and to teach them to sing together with a clear and positive message, is also excellent. Alan Williams as the forgetful and insightful Bernard plays off beautifully against Corey Peterson's personification of aimless youthful energy. Susan Lynch and and Bobby Stallwood are completely believable as the mother and son almost rearing one another. Two of the characters who are absent from this group are Faith and Charity, but despite the ever-mounting challenges for the rest, as Hazel tells us "You've gotta have hope, haven't you." These individuals may be like birds trapped in a building but they can still sing about birds that are free. Alexander Zeldin has a good ear for dialogue and his direction is strong while Natasha Jenkins has created an amazingly believable set. There are so many reasons to see this new work. No theatre lover should miss it!

Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆☆ 

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 WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until October 12, 2019
Various show times available. See website below.
Dorfman Theatre, National Theatre
Nearest tube: Waterloo
https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/faith-hope-and-charity
Map & Location: Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PX, UK

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