WORTH A LOOK?: *****

WHERE: Trafalgar Studios

WHEN?: 26/2 runs to 21/5

We bought front row seats for this the moment tickets went on sale.

However, when we arrive at Trafalgar Studios we find we have been bumped back six rows and are given free programmes, alcohol and food as compensation. It’s a disappointment but the chance to see the hottest cast in London perform something quite so unusual in a production staged so inventively more than makes up for it.

Uzo Aduba (Orange Is The New Black) and Zawe Ashton (a monsta nominee for Splendour at the Donmar last year, who you may have also seen in Channel 4’s Fresh Meat and Not Safe For Work) are maids who loathe their mistress, mercilessly impersonate her behind her back and plot to kill her.

This production is 105 minutes long without an interval and the pace is electric from the very start. Downton Abbey‘s Laura Carmichael arrives about halfway through the production in a flurry of petals, looking like she’s just stepped off a catwalk and with attitude to match.

The production is at its strongest when Aduba (astonishing) and Ashton (one of our most under-rated actresses) interact; skipping from hilarity, through intense via terrifying in the skip of a heartbeat.

Director Jamie Lloyd (next up Game of Thrones‘ Kit Harrington in Doctor Faustus) is always interesting but we think this is the best work of his that we’ve seen (and we raved about The Ruling Class). An absolutely unforgettable night at the theatre.

• Tickets here. Picture via Facebook courtesy Jamie Lloyd Company.
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