The Seagull is the complete package thanks to James Brining’s direction. The casting is perfect; the set sumptuous; the costumes tip-top and the adapted script a true delight.
Mike Poulton, the witty script adaptor, praises The Lyceum as “a theatre and a company Chekhov would have loved.” The cast of eleven certainly warm your heart, being consistently strong across the board.
There is humour, tenderness, spite and selfishness aplenty. The Seagull offers a study in human folly, with each of us striving for originality and acknowledgement in a world where our relationships and the perspective of “the other” tarnishes and corrupts our pure intentions.
The human experience is presented with simplicity. The tragedy of despised love and our willingness to accept crumbs, or nothing at all, is presented in all its guises amid the couples and would-be couples.
This production is boosted by a host of high-brand creatives. Colin Richmond, of international acclaim, and award-winning Anna Kelsey collaborated on the glorious set, sensitively lit by Lizzie Powell. The whole towering ensemble will make its way to Chichester once this Edinburgh run concludes on 1st November.
Caroline Quentin plays the self-obsessed actress to perfection. She is charming, amusing, manipulative and obsessed with her own celebrity.
Tallulah Greive’s (Masha) impatience, intolerance and her costume (Madeleine Boyd) are captivating. I’m not sure about her snuff protocol, but then, who is these days?
Michael Dylan as Medvendenko offers unacknowledged intelligence and a weary acceptance of life’s lot while John Bett is a delightful, lonely elder as Sorin.
The entire cast are impressive. Ensemble work is what makes a great show. Pace, projection, tempo and chemistry all work and, I assume that’s due to impeccable direction and team building by James Brining. The future looks bright for The Royal Lyceum Theatre if this first show under his care is anything to go by.
Reviewer: Kathleen Mansfield
Reviewed: 14th October 2025
North West End UK Rating: