Ken Stott and Reece Shearsmith star in Ronald Harwood’s play about two men reluctantly co-dependent. The production officially opened at the Duke of York’s Theatre last night – so what have critics been saying about it?
The Guardian: *** “Sean Foley’s production has more than a touch of Noises Off in its evocation of the ordered chaos of backstage life and the evening passes pleasantly enough.”
The Telegraph: **** “Ken Stott, such a masterful actor, never found wanting, is magnificent as Sir, but the revelation is Reece Shearsmith as Norman.”
WhatsOnStage: *** ” Under Sean Foley’s direction, this is an altogether brighter and broader backstage comedy than that recent prestige-TV outing.”
The Stage: **** “The Dresser is both more affecting and affectionate in director Sean Foley’s loving production.”
Broadway World: **** “This is a hugely enjoyable revival of a classic that will leave you ever so slightly heartbroken. A real treat.”
Evening Standard: *** “Sean Foley’s somewhat lacklustre production doesn’t make a convincing case for a West End revival in 2016.”
The Times: *** “Theatrical treats as Shearsmith’s loyal servant steals the show.”
Time Out: *** “It’s not always clear why Foley’s revived the play, without a bold vision to freshen up the musty drapes. But Reece Shearsmith and Ken Stott provide ample excuse – dusty it may be, but ‘The Dresser’ offers ample opportunity for its stars to shine.”
Live Theatre UK: *** “The Dresser is a much better play than this production suggests it is. And Shearsmith and Stott are better actors than this production suggests.”
Theatre Weekly: **** “The Dresser proves that a live theatre production can bring so much more than a televised production ever could.”
Jonathan Baz Reviews:*** “Foley however fails to take his leading actors truly into their characters’ skins. There’s a lack of chemistry between the pair that’s manifest in a lack of empathy from the audience.”
Carn’s Theatre Passion: ***** “This production of the Dresser will certainly be remembered by those fortunate enough to see it.”
The Dresser will play at the Duke of York’s Theatre until the 14th January 2017. To book tickets visit: ATG Tickets, Ticketmaster.co.uk, Last Minute.com, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk, Love Theatre.com, Theatre People.com and UK Tickets.co.uk.