The Marriage of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein ★★★★★ Jermyn Street Theatre | Mar 17 - Apr 16, 2022


Gertrude Stein's famous last words were "What is the question?" and this delightful play raises some large ones: the nature of fame, the value of money, and the creation of 'genius.' In this exuberant look at Stein, her relationship with Alice B. Toklas and their circle of friends, questions - metaphysical and epistemological - are confronted in a humorous and charmingly light-hearted manner. In a series of scenes informed by the writer's famous repetitions, paradoxes, and circumlocutions, social and political issues and the plight of oppressed sexual and religious minorities also come to the fore. Edward Einhorn has compacted a great deal into his small gem of a play and he does an amazing job of reflecting the prismatic reality of Stein's life, her salon and her obsessions. However, one thing that remains unquestioned and that survives both the serious and silly queries is Gertrude and Alice's devotion to each other and the power of their love. Natasha Byrne is totally convincing as earnest, self-important Stein, and Alyssa Simon is simply wonderful as doting but not overwhelmed Alice. Kelly Burke as Picasso effortlessly floats into and out of various characters, and Mark Huckett creates a Hemingway that might border on caricature but never becomes one. He moves seamlessly from the farcical to the darkly insightful. This is unquestionably a production that should not be missed. It's a play that is a play that is a winner.

Rated: ★★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Ali Wright.

Want to save on tickets? See our Tips page.

When, Where, Getting there:

Most Popular

Skid/SAABA ★★★★★ Sadler's Wells Theatre | May 11 - 13, 2023

Eurovision (Your Decision) ★★★★ Wonderville | Apr 29 - May 13, 2023

The Secret Life of Bees ★★★★ Almeida Theatre | Apr 8 - May 27, 2023

The Circle ★★★★★ Orange Tree Theatre | Apr 29 - Jun 17, 2023

Glory Ride ★★★ Charing Cross Theatre | Until July 29, 2023

TONY! [The Tony Blair Rock Opera] ★★★★ Leicester Square Theatre | Apr 15 - May 21, 2023

Nul Points! ★★★ Union Theatre | Apr 26 - May 20, 2023

Aspects of Love ★★★ Lyric Theatre | May 12 - Nov 11, 2023

Brokeback Mountain ★★★★★ @sohoplace | May 10 - Aug 12, 2023

Rose ★★★★ Ambassadors Theatre | May 23 - Jun 18, 2023

The City Life Magazine | Reviews & Ratings