Bacchae takes center stage this February at the National Theatre, where the new artistic director Indhu Rubasingham launches her tenure with a bold and daring production of Euripides' classic play. Debut playwright Nima Taleghani brings a fresh perspective to the ancient Greek drama, with choreography by Kate Prince and Clare Perkins leading the raucous "Greek chorus". The Olivier theatre will be transformed into a vibrant and unpredictable world, where ritual and chaos collide.
Rubasingham's debut production is a fitting harbinger of her artistic vision, which promises to shake up the traditional boundaries between dance, theater, and music. Her team has assembled a talented cast, and the addition of Q&A sessions with Rubasingham adds an extra layer of excitement for audiences eager to explore this innovative work.
For those who prefer more classic entertainment, the Barbican's upcoming production of Kiss Me, Kate is sure to delight fans of Cole Porter's witty banter and music. In this comedy based on The Taming of the Shrew, Adrian Dunbar and Stephanie J Block bring their own brand of Shakespearean flair to the roles of George and Lorraine, with BBC iPlayer offering a chance for viewers to tune in from home.
Meanwhile, dance enthusiasts will be captivated by (La)Horde's documentary, Desire, Revolt and Refuge, which explores the French collective's explosive rise to prominence. Featuring exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, this film offers an intimate look at the trio's artistic vision and their ongoing quest for creative freedom.
Arte.tv presents another gripping dance performance in Trouble, a haunting short film by Laura Bachman that plunges viewers into the world of dancer Marion Barbeau's escalating fear. With its unsettling atmosphere and striking visuals, this unsettling drama is sure to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
Last but not least, fans of Shakespeare will be treated to an enchanting evening with The Twelfth Night Reunion, a star-studded gathering featuring Judi Dench, Simon Callow, Stephen Fry, and Penelope Wilton. Brought together by Gyles Brandreth, this unforgettable night of speeches and song promises to transport viewers into the magic world of Shakespeare's beloved comedy.
As for those looking for something more offbeat, Poor Judge from Philadelphia's Wilma Theater offers a seductive and noirish cabaret featuring Aimee Mann's songs. This darkly comedic production combines dance, music, and theater in a unique blend that will captivate audiences with its moody charm.
Finally, the RSC's 1998 staging of The Winter's Tale is available on Theatre Channel, directed by Gregory Doran and starring Antony Sher as Leontes in a sumptuous production set against the backdrop of Bohemian magic. With its intricate plot twists and poetic language, this enchanting drama promises to bewitch viewers with its timeless charm.
The BBC Audio Drama Awards have also announced their finalists for Best Original Single Drama, with three exciting productions vying for the top prize: Roy Williams's The Final Touch, One Hundred and Fifty Days, and Sleaze.
Rubasingham's debut production is a fitting harbinger of her artistic vision, which promises to shake up the traditional boundaries between dance, theater, and music. Her team has assembled a talented cast, and the addition of Q&A sessions with Rubasingham adds an extra layer of excitement for audiences eager to explore this innovative work.
For those who prefer more classic entertainment, the Barbican's upcoming production of Kiss Me, Kate is sure to delight fans of Cole Porter's witty banter and music. In this comedy based on The Taming of the Shrew, Adrian Dunbar and Stephanie J Block bring their own brand of Shakespearean flair to the roles of George and Lorraine, with BBC iPlayer offering a chance for viewers to tune in from home.
Meanwhile, dance enthusiasts will be captivated by (La)Horde's documentary, Desire, Revolt and Refuge, which explores the French collective's explosive rise to prominence. Featuring exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, this film offers an intimate look at the trio's artistic vision and their ongoing quest for creative freedom.
Arte.tv presents another gripping dance performance in Trouble, a haunting short film by Laura Bachman that plunges viewers into the world of dancer Marion Barbeau's escalating fear. With its unsettling atmosphere and striking visuals, this unsettling drama is sure to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
Last but not least, fans of Shakespeare will be treated to an enchanting evening with The Twelfth Night Reunion, a star-studded gathering featuring Judi Dench, Simon Callow, Stephen Fry, and Penelope Wilton. Brought together by Gyles Brandreth, this unforgettable night of speeches and song promises to transport viewers into the magic world of Shakespeare's beloved comedy.
As for those looking for something more offbeat, Poor Judge from Philadelphia's Wilma Theater offers a seductive and noirish cabaret featuring Aimee Mann's songs. This darkly comedic production combines dance, music, and theater in a unique blend that will captivate audiences with its moody charm.
Finally, the RSC's 1998 staging of The Winter's Tale is available on Theatre Channel, directed by Gregory Doran and starring Antony Sher as Leontes in a sumptuous production set against the backdrop of Bohemian magic. With its intricate plot twists and poetic language, this enchanting drama promises to bewitch viewers with its timeless charm.
The BBC Audio Drama Awards have also announced their finalists for Best Original Single Drama, with three exciting productions vying for the top prize: Roy Williams's The Final Touch, One Hundred and Fifty Days, and Sleaze.
I'm so hyped about the upcoming performances at the National Theatre! Bacchae is going to be a wild ride 
, and I love how Indhu Rubasingham is pushing the boundaries of traditional theater with this fresh take on Euripides' classic play. And can we talk about The Twelfth Night Reunion? 
As for me, I'm more of a tech geek at heart 
, but even I can appreciate the innovative spirit behind these productions. Can't wait to see them all in February! 
! Bacchae at National Theatre looks like a wild ride, all that ritual & chaos... my kinda vibe 
. On the other hand, Kiss Me, Kate at Barbican is all about classic fun 
, perfect for those who wanna keep it old school.
! Can't wait to dive into that doc. Trouble by Laura Bachman sounds like a real nail-biter 
. And what about The Twelfth Night Reunion? Judi Dench, Simon Callow... it's a who's who of theatre royalty 
.
. And RSC's The Winter's Tale on Theatre Channel... Antony Sher as Leontes is like, the ultimate casting choice 
.
. Anyone heard anything about these productions? 
and adding q&a sessions with rubasingham is like the ultimate win 
gotta love the sound of that Bacchae production at the National Theatre, who's been to any of Rubasingham's previous shows? 
dance, theater, and music all mixed together - genius!
! I'm loving the fact that there's something for everyone - from classic plays like Kiss Me, Kate to more modern productions like Bacchae. And can we talk about how cool it is that Judi Dench is back on stage again? She's the OG Shakespearean diva 
. I'm also intrigued by Poor Judge from Philadelphia's Wilma Theater - dark cabarets and Aimee Mann's songs? That sounds like a wild ride 
. And who wouldn't want to watch The Winter's Tale on Theatre Channel? It's like having a little taste of Bohemian magic in the comfort of your own home 
.
... but at the same time, some people might find it too out there? 
. And to make things even more interesting, the artistic director is doing Q&A sessions... sounds like a night out! 
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Can't wait to experience it for myself 
[GIF of a person dancing to "Kiss Me, Kate" music](https://giphy.com/gifs/kiss-me-kate-musical-7xTz3P1c5s4Eg)
[A GIF of a stormy night with a dancer in the center, inspired by "Desire, Revolt and Refuge"](https://i.imgur.com/v8W4bqD.png)