The London premiere of Zach Helm’s play directed has made its debut at the Rose Theatre in Kingston. But what have critics made of it?
The Guardian: *** Michael Billington said: “it is worth seeing for Mavor’s performance and the ruthless clarity of Malkovich’s direction.”
The Telegraph: *** Dominic Cavendish wrote: “Mavor, bound to go far, is needle-sharp as the spiky Annie.”
Variety: “Malkovich’s direction of actors is first-rate. Each performance is fine-chiseled yet playful.”
The Stage: *** Paul Vale commented that: “Helm’s play features some surprising humour and a incredibly gripping central performance from Mavor but while it’s stylishly put together, there are unsatisfying gaps in his narrative – it leaves too many questions unanswered.”
Evening Standard: **** Henry Hitchings found that: “it’s a production with plenty of heart and humour, lit up by the fiery rawness of Freya Mavor.”
The Independent: *** Holly Williams wrote: “even if Good Canary is too in hock to the myth of troubled artistic genius, Annie’s self-destruction is painted with an unpatronising ferocity that ultimately packs a visceral punch.”
Love London Love Culture: ❤❤❤❤ “John Malkovich’s production is sharp, slick and stylish.”
Broadway World: **** “This is a captivating and tragic play that is beautifully staged and deftly performed. It may not always be comfortable to watch, but it is well worth the effort.”
London Theatre.co.uk: *** “Freya Mavor gives a striking and committed portrayal of Annie.”
Essential Surrey: **** 1/2 “Malkovich’s assured direction brings out every nuance of a painful but superbly realised play.”
British Theatre Guide: “a rewarding evening that comes highly recommended and really should get an opportunity for a West End outing before too long.”
There Ought to Be Clowns: “it’s a fascinating piece of drama and somehow, just how you’d imagine a John Malkovich-directed play to be.”
Good Canary will play at the Rose Theatre Kingston until the 8th October. To book tickets visit: Discount Theatre.com, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk, Love Theatre.com, Theatre People.com and UK Tickets.co.uk.