The theatrical landscape of London’s West End is poised for a significant cultural event this summer, as the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) brings its critically acclaimed production of Edmond Rostand’s timeless masterpiece, "Cyrano de Bergerac," to the Noël Coward Theatre. Helmed by the inimitable Adrian Lester in the titular role, this limited engagement, running from June 13 through September 5, follows a triumphant run at the RSC’s Stratford-upon-Avon home, signaling a production of exceptional quality and profound resonance.
Rostand’s "Cyrano de Bergerac," first staged in 1897, has long captivated audiences with its poignant exploration of love, identity, wit, and the tragic chasm between inner self and outward appearance. The play centers on Cyrano, a brilliant poet and swordsman, cursed with a grotesquely large nose, which he believes makes him unlovable. He secretly pines for his beautiful cousin, Roxane, who, ironically, falls in love with the handsome but inarticulate Christian. Cyrano, in a heartbreaking act of selfless devotion, agrees to ghostwrite love letters for Christian, lending his eloquent words to his rival’s charm, thereby orchestrating his own emotional demise. It’s a tale that has transcended generations, speaking to the universal human experience of insecurity, unrequited passion, and the power—and limitations—of language. Its themes of authenticity, the courage to express one’s true feelings, and the often-cruel judgment based on superficialities remain remarkably relevant in any era.
The Royal Shakespeare Company, renowned globally for its rigorous interpretations of classic texts and its commitment to fostering theatrical excellence, has once again demonstrated its prowess with this contemporary reimagining of "Cyrano." A transfer from Stratford-upon-Avon to the West End is not merely a logistical move; it is a profound endorsement of a production’s artistic merit and popular appeal. It signifies that the work has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning its place on one of the world’s most prestigious theatrical stages. For the RSC, it underscores their mission to bring the power of classical drama to the widest possible audience, ensuring that these enduring stories continue to provoke, entertain, and enlighten.
At the heart of this much-anticipated transfer is Adrian Lester, an actor whose distinguished career spans decades and includes a formidable array of stage, screen, and television credits. Lester is a true titan of British theatre, celebrated for his versatility, intellectual rigor, and magnetic stage presence. His previous roles, such as the titular characters in "Henry V" and "Othello" at the National Theatre, his Olivier Award-winning performance in "Company" at the Donmar Warehouse and subsequent West End transfer, and his compelling turn in "The Lehman Trilogy" on Broadway, underscore his capacity to inhabit complex, emotionally charged roles with profound depth and nuance. His return to the West End as Cyrano is not just a casting coup; it is a promise of a masterclass in performance. His ability to convey both immense strength and profound vulnerability makes him an ideal interpreter of Cyrano, a character who is at once a fierce warrior and a tender poet, a man whose wit is a shield for a broken heart.
Lester himself articulated the long journey to bring this particular vision of "Cyrano" to life, stating, "Simon Evans and I have been working on this project for years, well before the brilliant and incredibly supportive RSC collaborated with us to make it happen. I am so happy to be stepping back into the role of Cyrano in order to bring this playful and poignant production to more audiences in the West End." His words reveal not only a deep personal investment in the project but also a profound satisfaction in sharing its unique qualities with a wider public. He further praised the adaptation’s approach, calling it "hilariously funny and desperately moving in equal parts," a description that hints at the delicate balance of comedy and tragedy inherent in Rostand’s original, amplified through a modern lens.
The fresh adaptation, crafted by director Simon Evans alongside co-writer Debris Stevenson, is a key element that distinguishes this production. Evans, known for his incisive storytelling and innovative directorial style, notably helmed and co-wrote the RTS award-winning BBC series "Staged," showcasing his keen understanding of dialogue, character interaction, and the comedic potential in human foibles. His collaboration with Debris Stevenson, a celebrated playwright and Grime-poet, introduces an exciting contemporary sensibility. Stevenson’s background in Grime poetry, a genre characterized by its raw energy, rhythmic language, and often political or social commentary, suggests an adaptation that might infuse Rostand’s verse with a modern urban cadence, making the classic text feel immediate and resonant for 21st-century audiences. This fusion of classical dramatic structure with contemporary poetic forms could lend a dynamic new texture to Cyrano’s famous monologues and witty retorts, breathing fresh life into the centuries-old narrative.
Evans and Stevenson described their version as exploring "the courage it takes to say what you mean, plainly and bravely." This focus on authentic expression and vulnerability is particularly compelling in today’s world, where communication is often mediated and filtered. It elevates Cyrano’s struggle from a mere romantic entanglement to a universal quest for genuine self-expression. They also lavished praise on Lester’s central performance, noting, "At the heart of it all is Adrian Lester, whose extraordinary combination of gentleness, playfulness, and ferocity is utterly captivating. We’re incredibly proud to bring this production to the West End, and to share it with new audiences." These sentiments highlight the nuanced portrayal Lester brings to a character often reduced to a caricature of wit and self-pity, emphasizing instead a more complex and humanistic interpretation.
Reprising her role as Roxane is Susannah Fielding, an actress whose talent has been recognized with the prestigious Ian Charleson Award in 2014, an accolade celebrating outstanding classical acting by young performers. Her previous work with the RSC, including "The Merchant of Venice," suggests a profound understanding of classical texts and the ability to imbue iconic characters with depth and contemporary relevance. Roxane, often perceived as a somewhat passive object of affection, can be reimagined through a modern lens to possess greater agency and complexity. Fielding’s presence promises a Roxane who is not merely a beautiful face, but a woman of intelligence and spirit, whose choices and perspectives are integral to the tragedy that unfolds.
The production is a collaborative endeavor, bringing together key players in the London theatre scene: Wessex Grove, Gavin Kalin Productions, and the RSC, all hosted at the Delfont Mackintosh-operated Noël Coward Theatre. This pooling of resources and expertise ensures a production of the highest caliber, from its artistic vision to its technical execution and audience experience. The Noël Coward Theatre, a historic and distinguished venue in the heart of the West End, provides an intimate yet grand setting perfectly suited for the emotional scale of "Cyrano."
Beyond the star performances and innovative adaptation, the creative ensemble assembled for this production is equally impressive, contributing significantly to its overall impact. Grace Smart is responsible for the crucial elements of set and costume design, tasked with creating a world that is both historically evocative and conceptually fresh, capable of enhancing the narrative without overpowering it. Joshie Harriette’s lighting design will sculpt the stage, evoking mood, atmosphere, and drawing the audience’s eye to moments of intense emotion or dramatic tension. Alex Baranowski’s musical composition will underscore the emotional beats of the play, from Cyrano’s bravado to his deepest despair, while Donato Wharton’s sound design will immerse the audience in the world of 17th-century Paris, or perhaps a more abstract, timeless space.
The physical language of the production is in the capable hands of Sarita Piotrowski as movement director, ensuring that the ensemble’s presence and interactions are fluid and expressive. Bethan Clark, as choreographer for fights and intimacy, faces the critical task of staging Cyrano’s renowned sword duels with thrilling realism, while also navigating the delicate and complex intimacy between characters with sensitivity and authenticity. Rebecca Latham serves as dramaturg for the RSC, a vital role in shaping the text and ensuring its coherence and impact within the production’s vision. Finally, Matthew Dewsbury CDG handles casting, a testament to the meticulous care taken in assembling the full company of actors who will bring this vibrant world to life.
This West End transfer of "Cyrano de Bergerac" is more than just another play; it is a cultural event. It represents a confluence of theatrical excellence: a timeless story, an innovative adaptation, a world-class leading actor, and a distinguished creative team, all brought to life by the esteemed Royal Shakespeare Company. For audiences seeking a theatrical experience that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving, "Cyrano de Bergerac" starring Adrian Lester promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of human passion, courage, and the enduring power of words. It is a testament to the vitality of classical theatre and its capacity to speak to the contemporary soul, reminding us all of the profound courage it takes to truly say what we mean.
