We round up the reviews for this stage adaptation based on George R. R. Martin’s books.
The Guardian: “Actors in adaptations of screen material – such as the current The Silence of the Lambs – can choose whether to be avatars of the TV or film stars. Here, the performers must be plausible previews of their future television inheritors. Maxim Ays as Jaime Lannister, Michael Abubakar’s Ned Stark, the Cersei Lannister of Daisy Franks and Hughie O’Donnell’s Lord Varys might all be earlier portraits of the famous, but youth and new lines leave leeway for their own intonations. Even so, the greatest impact is made by characters featured in the main TV show only in dialogue or flashback: Princess Elia Martell and Prince Rhaegar Targaryen, viscerally played by Elizabeth Ayodele and Noah Ritter.”
WhatsOnStage: “But it is a remarkable achievement, wonderfully directed by Cooke and superbly acted by every member of the 35-strong ensemble. The result is a brilliant exhibition of how theatre can create magic. It’s a clarion call for the power of imagination and skill in telling stories for the ages, making a room filled with others into an entire world.”
The Arts Desk: “It’s a must-see show and, surely, this sold-out run will not be its last.”
The Independent: “In just under four hours, this stage show goes where the TV series wouldn’t.”
All That Dazzles: “Fans will certainly leave impressed and satisfied by this latest offering in the Thrones universe, and newcomers will almost definitely find themselves reaching for a copy of the books (as I myself have). It undoubtedly makes for an entertaining night out, and one I can’t imagine will not find its way to London, New York, and beyond. If the RSC was looking for its next big hit, this surely has the worldwide appeal and spectacle to pay itself back many times over.”
The Telegraph: “The RSC’s The Mad King features a cast of 36, puppeteered dragons and magnificent metallic horses operated War Horse-style by handlers.”
West End Best Friend: “An epic, visually spectacular feat of theatrical ambition that brings the world of Westeros thrillingly to life.”
WhatsOnlive.co.uk: “The ambition of those who conceived the idea and the vision for The Mad King, together with the skill and talent of those who are bringing it to life, can only be admired. This is a truly remarkable piece of theatre, one that is sure to live long in the memory of every single person who is lucky enough to get a ticket.”
Daily Express: “Utterly immersive, visually spectacular. Like the books and TV shows, much is dialled to eleven, yet quieter moments shine through.”
To book tickets visit: https://www.rsc.org.uk/game-of-thrones-the-mad-king/