The Bee and Port Authority - the week in theatre

So, back into the swing of it with theatre, even though my week has been insanely busy. First up was a treat because I was a plus one - so I still got the free ticket, but didn't have to work for it. This was The Bee, a fascinating if flawed Japanese play (performed in English) at the Soho Theatre. I was keen to see this because the lead (Kathryn Hunter, playing a man) is a fascinating actor: I saw her play Richard III in an all-female Richard III a few years ago and she was amazing. Here she was equally compelling, even though the play didn't really live up to her talents - still, it certainly stayed with me, so I'd say it was worth seeing.

The Bee

The second show I was reviewing: Port Authority at the Southwark, which is one of my favourite theatres. This three-handler starred Father Ted actor Ardal O'Hanlon (actually quite dishy in real life) and was moving, sweet and funny if again slightly flawed: even at 90 minutes, it dragged a little. Worth a look though for strong performances, beautiful staging and a charming and romantic story...