Death of a Salesman, Piccadilly Theatre - ★★★★★ - Until January 4, 2020


This is simply the best production of Death of a Salesman we've ever seen. Recontextualising the piece in terms of racial politics in America brings a new and rich perspective to Arthur Miller's classic. The illusions of the "American Dream" with its emphasis on material success as the source of self-definition and fulfillment take on an even deeper meaning, echoing into the current political culture of so many societies. Wendell Pierce is simply brilliant as the salesman who sells himself on the unreal promises of success defined by money and likeability. His presentation of Willy Loman's disintegration is nuanced and moving. Sharon D. Clarke as Willy's ever supportive wife is a tower of strength not just as Linda Loman, but as an actor. She rivets the audience's attention. Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù is thoroughly convincing as the tortured Biff who struggles to confront his own reality in the face of his father's illusions, and Natey Jones does a fine turn as the escapist younger brother, Happy. The set, lighting and thoughtful use of music create an atmosphere that completely takes us into the Lomans' world and Willy's crisis. The co-directors, Marianne Elliott and Miranda Cromwell have created a production that completely deserves the standing ovation it receives.

Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆☆ 

Want to save on tickets? See our Tips page.

WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until January 4, 2020
Mon - Sat: 7:30 pm, Wed & Sat 2 pm
Piccadilly Theatre
Nearest tube: Piccadilly Circus

Most Popular

It Runs in the Family ★★★★ The Mill at Sonning | Feb 13 - Apr 12, 2025

St. Martin in-the-fields: Lunchtime Concerts ★★★★ FREE

Clueless - The Musical ★★★★ Trafalgar Theatre | Until September 27, 2025

Edvard Munch Portraits ★★★★ National Portrait Gallery | Mar 13 - Jun 15, 2025

Retrograde ★★★★★ Apollo Theatre | Mar 8 - Jun 14, 2025

Men’s Business ★★ Finborough Theatre | Mar 18 - Apr 12, 2025

Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo ★★★★ Royal Academy of Arts | Mar 21 - Jun 29, 2025

Punch ★★★★★ Young Vic | Mar 1 - Apr 26, 2025

Wilko: Love and Death and Rock 'n' Roll ★★★ Southwark Playhouse, Borough | Mar 20 - Apr 19, 2025

Dear Martin ★★★ Arcola Theatre | March 5 - 29, 2025

The City Life Magazine | Reviews & Ratings