A remarkable, inventive and confident revival led by a magnificent Adrian Lester
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What's it about?
Edmond Rostand's classic play follows the brilliant swordsman and poet Cyrano de Bergerac, whose extraordinary wit and courage are overshadowed by his insecurity about his appearance. Secretly in love with Roxanne, Cyrano helps the handsome but inarticulate Christian win her heart, leading to one of theatre's most poignant and enduring love stories.
What We Loved
Adrian Lester delivers a truly remarkable performance as Cyrano. The audience hangs on his every word—pun intended—as he moves effortlessly between razor-sharp wit, swagger and heartbreaking vulnerability. With the smallest glance, he can completely break your heart. It's an exceptional piece of acting.
The whole cast are remarkable. We particularly enjoyed Philip Cumbus and Greer Dale-Foulkes as Le Bret and Abigail who were simply adorable, and delivered their dialogue with such dry humour.
This is an exceptionally original production that embraces every inch of the Noël Coward Theatre. From the stalls to the balcony, every box becomes part of the action as the cast move throughout the auditorium, enveloping the audience and drawing them into Cyrano's world.
The addition of actor-musicians is fantastic. Live music is woven seamlessly into the storytelling, creating atmosphere, humour and emotional depth.
Technically, the production is stunning. The combination of lighting, music and set design creates constantly shifting moods, from moments of exhilaration to profound intimacy. The precision of the lighting, revealing performers at exactly the right moments, is particularly beautiful.
The physical staging is equally impressive. The choreography and sword fighting are among the finest we've seen on stage—dynamic, exhilarating and impeccably executed.
Anything we'd change?
Nothing
Who created it?
Adapted and directed by Simon Evans, co-adapted by Debris Stevenson, with design by Grace Smart, lighting by Joshie Harriette and music by Alex Baranowski.
Who would enjoy it?
Hard to see anyone not enjoying this production. Whether you're discovering Cyrano de Bergerac for the first time or returning to a favourite, this production offers romance, humour, spectacle and genuine emotional impact.
Verdict
A remarkable production in every sense. Beautifully told, emotionally devastating and visually stunning, this Cyrano de Bergerac is elevated by an extraordinary Adrian Lester and cast and a production that uses every corner of the theatre to immerse its audience. Original, moving and technically exceptional, it's one of the finest revivals currently in the West End.