This was bombastic, sharp, tightly-written event theatre, led by one of Glasgow’s great acting talents. James McAvoy revelled in the lead role of Cyrano de Bergerac in a transformed, stripped-back production that absorbs modern discourse while still offering social commentary true to the subject material. The 21st century remix – complete with beats, rhymes and rap battles – of a late 19th century story set in 1640s France. It was a sellout success for its limited run in Glasgow.
A love letter to language, a stark examination of self-image and a tumultuous tale of romance, war and political intrigue. All delivered with a high-paced volley of Scottish invective from McAvoy facing off against a formidable crew of supporting players.
Jamie Lloyd’s production was a sensation when it debuted in London in 2019. It was a joy to see it electrify audiences at the Theatre Royal before moving on for a limited run in Brooklyn, New York.
James McAvoy studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, just around the corner from where he was delivering his lines, so this could not have been any more of an acting homecoming.
As the Theatre Royal was dark for almost two years during the pandemic, this return felt more poignant and powerful as a gallus Glaswegian accent filled the room.
The play itself succeeds by playing to expectations while simultaneously turning them on their head. Cyrano de Bergerac has become a cultural reference, a story that has a shape people readily recognise. Here, you have a trajectory that’s familiar with a depth of feeling and radical language that’s unexpected.
The script by dramatist Martin Crimp is clever and swaggering. There are laugh out loud moments – McAvoy occasionally drops a music hall one-liner towards the audience amidst verbal and physical dexterity, Evelyn Miller brings a playful sharpness to the role of Roxane before pivoting to more serious tones. Eben Figueiredo lobs wide-eyed reaction as Christian. Tom Edden propels the plot along as the villain De Guiche.
Cyrano de Bergerac has a lot to say, with immaculate, subtle staging to add depth to the immersive experience. It will be remembered as a tour de force of entertainment, rousing a reaction from the audience. A timely reminder of what great theatre is all about.
The production will be at the Bam Harvey Theater from 5 April.
