Review: The Truth at the Wyndham's Theatre

The Truth

Wyndham's Theatre

Reviewed on Monday 27th June 2016

★★★★

Following its sell out run at the Menier Chocolate Factory, Florian Zeller's wickedly funny play The Truth has transferred to the Wyndham's Theatre. Lindsay Posner's production plays with its audience - it's a smart piece with more to it than first meets the eye.

Alexander Hanson makes a triumphant return to the West End in a hugely demanding role. He plays a man having an affair with his best friend's wife. Zeller manipulates the situation spectacularly; it's a fascinating exploration of marriage, trust and reality.

Adapted by Christopher Hampton, The Truth flows just as neatly as The Father and The Mother, but it's also very different in structure. Lizzie Clachan's design fits into the Wyndham's perfectly - Posner's production has made the transition from off-West End to West End seamlessly. Gregory Clarke's sound enhances the concentrated, slightly twisted atmosphere superbly. 

Hanson is absolutely tremendous as a character who sees the world through disillusioned eyes. He never leaves the stage, with his performance intensifying as the piece progresses. He plays brilliantly opposite Tanya Franks, Frances O’Connor and Robert Portal who complete the cast.

The Truth leaves you with plenty to digest, it requires concentration but it's also very accessible. Zeller's writing is so smart - fingers crossed we don't have to wait long for Zeller's next play The Lie to make its UK premiere!

The Truth is right at the top of my current recommendations list - it's well worth a look.

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

The Truth runs at the Wyndham's Theatre until 3rd September 2016.
Please visit www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk for further information and tickets.

Photo Credit: Marc Brenner