Edward Fox stars in Hugh Whitemore’s one man show which celebrates John Betjeman, poet laureate and icon of British poetry. But what have critics been making of it?
WhatsOnStage: *** “Fox is a mesmerising presence, guffawing wickedly through Betjeman’s more humorous anecdotes, making sure, all the while, the audience is there with him too.”
Broadway World: **** “Fox brings a comically loving side to an irreverent personality and frequently deprecating attitude, and his Britishness matches the poet’s.”
London Theatre1: **** “There’s much to be absorbed and enjoyed by this accessible show about an accessible poet, whatever your level of prior knowledge of Sir John Betjeman.”
The Guardian: ** “The show is often best when Betjeman is at his most self-deprecating, but he remains emotionally elusive as Whitemore hurtles through the biographical detail.”
The Upcoming: *** “Sand in the Sandwiches is not for everyone. This is more for the older generation who grew up with Betjeman on the BBC, are familiar with the news and affairs of the day and who enjoy a bit of public school humour. It will mostly go over the head of anyone else.”
British Theatre Guide: “The best word to sum up this old-fashioned evening is wistful, given its gentle humour, the long-forgotten memories of the first half of the last century, including two wars viewed from outside.”
Carn’s Theatre Passion: **** “Director Gareth Armstrong keeps the pace flowing admirably.”
Mature Times: “Sand in the Sandwiches is strictly for lovers of Betjeman”
Sand in the Sandwiches is on at the Theatre Royal Haymarket until the 3rd June before continuing to tour the UK. For more information visit: https://www.sandinthesandwiches.com/