A gripping, inventive and emotionally devastating revival powered by a magnetic central performance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What’s it about?
Set inside a psychiatric institution, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest follows rebellious newcomer Randle P. McMurphy as he disrupts the rigid routines imposed by the formidable Nurse Ratched. As friendships form between the patients, humour, humanity and heartbreak collide in a powerful examination of freedom, conformity and control.
What we loved best
At the centre of this production is a stunning performance from Aaron Pierre as McMurphy (made famous by Jack Nicholson in the film). What an actor. From the moment Pierre enters, he has both the audience and his fellow patients completely in the palm of his hand. Charismatic, unpredictable, funny and quietly devastating, it’s the kind of performance that makes you immediately follow anything he does next.
The casting across the board is exceptional. Every actor feels perfectly matched to their role, creating a company that is fully committed — literally and emotionally — to the world of the play. The relationships between the patients feel authentic, adding real warmth and humanity to the production.
The in-the-round staging at the Old Vic works brilliantly, with the audience cleverly positioned as fellow patients observing the action unfold around them. The production uses this dynamic well, incorporating subtle audience interactions that heighten both the intimacy and discomfort of the experience.
The set design is also highly effective. Multiple entrance and exit points keep the staging engaging, ensuring the energy never drops. Combined with sharp direction and excellent pacing, the production constantly pulls the audience deeper into the institution’s unsettling world.
Most impressively, the show balances entertainment and devastation remarkably well. It’s thoroughly engaging throughout, often very funny, but ultimately heartbreaking in its final emotional impact.
Anything we’d change?
The inclusion of Congo Square in New Orleans references and contextual material at the start and end of the production doesn’t entirely land dramatically and feels somewhat disconnected from the core narrative. Without reading the programme notes beforehand, the intention behind these additions can feel a little unclear and slightly confusing.
Who would enjoy this?
Fans of powerful performances and emotionally charged drama. A strong choice for both seasoned theatre-goers and visitors wanting to experience a bold London revival at the acclaimed Old Vic.
Who created it?
Novel by Ken Kesey
Adapted by Dale Wasserman
Directed by Clint Dyer
Set & Costume – Ben Stones
Lighting – Chris Davey
Sound – Benjamin Grant
Verdict
A thrilling and emotionally bruising revival, anchored by a magnetic central performance from Aaron Pierre that lingers long after the final scene.