Photos by Marc Brenner

Look Back in Anger: The Almeida’s Revival Blazes with Fury and Heart

John Osborne’s Look Back in Anger is often hailed as the play that changed British theatre, and the Almeida Theatre’s production, directed by Atri Banerjee, reinforces its enduring relevance. Banerjee approaches Osborne’s angry young man, Jimmy Porter, with a modern lens, stripping back any nostalgia and revealing the timeless frustration at its core. This is not just a revival of a classic but a bold reimagining that forces us to confront the play’s message with fresh eyes.

Billy Howle’s portrayal of Jimmy is a masterclass in emotional volatility. He embodies the character’s simmering rage and deep insecurities, turning every outburst into a moment of raw, visceral energy. Howle brings a ferocity to Jimmy that is difficult to look away from, even when his cruelty borders on unbearable. Ellora Torchia’s Alison, on the other hand, provides a restrained and nuanced performance, offering a poignant counterbalance to Jimmy’s relentless diatribes. Her quiet strength speaks volumes, and the moments when her emotional armour cracks are devastating. The chemistry between Howle and Torchia is electric, particularly in moments of vulnerability that show the fractured tenderness in their relationship.

This is no museum piece – Banerjee’s production crackles with immediacy, reimagining Osborne’s classic for a new generation.

The Almeida’s intimate space enhances the claustrophobic tension of the Porters’ flat. Designed by Rosie Elnile, the set is a clever mix of the minimal and the evocative, its muted tones capturing the oppressive atmosphere of post-war Britain. The stark, stripped-back staging draws the audience’s focus entirely to the interactions between characters, amplifying the emotional beats. Lucy Carter’s lighting design shifts seamlessly between harsh realism and dreamlike moments, while the soundscape adds subtle yet effective layers to the production’s simmering intensity.

The supporting cast adds further depth to this production. Sam Troughton’s Cliff brings warmth and tenderness, offering a glimmer of humanity in Jimmy’s otherwise bleak world. His portrayal makes Cliff feel like the moral compass of the piece, even as he is swept into the emotional chaos around him. Emma Mackey’s Helena, meanwhile, is sharp and captivating, delivering a performance that makes the love triangle feel fresh and unpredictable. Her scenes with Howle brim with tension and highlight the complex dynamics of power and vulnerability in the play.

Banerjee’s direction doesn’t shy away from the play’s challenging themes – class, gender, and the bitterness of unrealised potential. Yet, it also injects a sense of urgency, reminding us that anger, whether justified or misplaced, remains a potent force in our world today. This production is a stark reminder of how little has changed since Osborne first put pen to paper. Some may find Jimmy’s relentless rants overwhelming or even alienating, but Banerjee makes a compelling case for why his voice still matters. The emotional rawness of the characters, the biting social critique, and the moments of tenderness that glimmer through the cracks ensure that this is a production that lingers long after the performance ends.

Final Thoughts ★★★★

Would I recommend Look Back in Anger? Without hesitation. This production at the Almeida Theatre takes a timeless classic and imbues it with renewed energy and relevance. Fierce performances, astute direction, and a stripped-back yet evocative design make this a must-see for both Osborne enthusiasts and those new to his work. Banerjee’s Look Back in Anger forces us to confront the raw frustrations of human existence, proving that this play’s fire still burns, just as brightly – and perhaps even more urgently – in today’s fractured world.

Playing at the Aleida Theatre until 30 November 2024.

Disclaimer: Ticket was purchased without any association or endorsement from the theatre.

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