Peter Oswald's new adaptation of Edmond Rostand's 1897 play is given a fabulous staging at the Bristol Old Vic. Directed by Tom Morris and with designs by Ti Green, this small cast production really bounces along.
A flexible set, with a beautifully painted cloth, provides all of the locations required with the siege set of the second act being particulary effective. We buy into all of the characters completely and the performers demonstrate great energy and flexibility as, with the exception of Cyrano and Roxane, they all take on several parts.
There are several really memorable sequences; the terrificly choreographed and executed sword fight, the recipe for almond tarts (GBBO is missing a trick!) and the attack on Arras.
In truth, I have never been a great fan of the underlying story but this production gives it a fresh face and carried me along with its enthusiasm. An ex cellent night of theatre and another feather in BoV's cap ;-)
