National Theatre is one of the most iconic spaces for performance in the UK. As well as being a theatre space with multiple areas, it also provides a cinematic experience for those who can’t make it to the theatre via NT Live. Now, fans can catch more plays live from their living rooms while cinemas and theatres are shut down.
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Every week the National Theatre streams one new play for theatre fans to enjoy.
So far, some incredible performances have been included, with Tamsin Grieg’s turn as Malvolia in Twelfth Night, Treasure Island starring Arthur Darvill and Benedict Cumberbatch as Frankenstein as high points.
Currently showing is another Shakespeare classic, Antony and Cleopatra, this time starring Ralph Fiennes and Sophie Okonedo in the starring roles.
The intense, passionate tragedy sees lovers from across the Roman Empire cause chaos and battle as their love destroys those around them.
However, what are the upcoming plays to be added to the platform?
Barber Shop Chronicles – May 14-21
The Barber Shop Chronicles shows six different stories across cities all over the world, all based in the local barbershop, and has had two sell-out runs at the National Theatre as well as a world tour.
The synopsis for the play reads: “Newsroom, political platform, local hotspot, confession box, preacher-pulpit and football stadium.
“For generations, African men have gathered in barber shops to discuss the world.
“These are places where the banter can be barbed and the truth is always telling.”
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A Streetcar Named Desire – May 21-28
This adaptation of the iconic Tennessee Williams’ play was performed in 2014 at the National Theatre to critical acclaim and starred Vanessa Kirby, Gillian Anderson and Ben Foster.
The synopsis reads: “As Blanche’s [played by Gillian Anderson] fragile world crumbles, she turns to her sister Stella [Vanessa Kirby] for solace – but her downward spiral brings her face to face with the brutal, unforgiving Stanley Kowalski [Ben Foster].”
The play has been adapted for stage and screen many times, including the famous film starring Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh.
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This House – May 28 – June 4
The political satirical drama came to the National Theatre in 2013 and came from the pen of James Graham, who is now best known for his work on ITV’s Quiz.
The synopsis reads: “It’s 1974, and Britain has a hung Parliament.
“The corridors of Westminster ring with the sound of infighting and backstabbing as the political parties battle to change the future of the nation.
“During this era of chaos, when a staggering number of politicians die and age-old traditions are thrown aside, MPs find they must roll up their sleeves, and bend the rules, to navigate a way through the Mother of all Parliaments.”
Coriolanus
Another of Shakespeare’s masterpieces, Coriolanus is a war epic like no other, this time starring Tom Hiddleston as the army general alongside Mark Gatiss, Hadley Fraser, Alfred Enoch and Deborah Findlay.
The synopsis reads: “When an old adversary threatens Rome, the city calls once more on her hero and defender: Coriolanus. But he has enemies at home too.
“As famine threatens the city, the citizens’ hunger swells to an appetite for change, and on returning from the field, Coriolanus must confront the march of realpolitik and the voice of an angry people.”
This version was performed at the Donmar Warehouse and was filmed live in 2014.
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