SIMON Russell Beale brings his immense talents to the character of Sidney Bruhl in a brilliant, entertaining play that offers more than simple thrills. Russell Beale s Bruhl offers moments of g
DEATHTRAP, Noel Coward Theatre, St Martin's Lane, WC2
SIMON Russell Beale brings his immense talents to the character of Sidney Bruhl in a brilliant, entertaining play that offers more than simple thrills.
Russell Beale's Bruhl offers moments of genuine pathos as well as his deft comic timing - he conveys the underlying desperation of a writer who hasn't had a success for 18 years.
Claire Skinner's Myra Bruhl - wondering if her husband is plotting murder - worries with silent intensity at the side of the stage, and Glee's Jonathan Groff offers a strong performance as Clifford Anderson, who visits the blocked writer for advice on his own play, which seems to be a sure-fire hit.
The twisting plot is a well-balanced mix of comedy and suspense punctuated with genuine shocks, and Rob Howell's set, bristling with antique weapons, is beautifully designed.
- JO TREW
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