Friday 20 March 2009

Juliet Stevenson is superb in Duet for One

To see the Almeida production of Duet for One at Bath Theatre Royal last night. Juliet Stevenson is stunningly good as the world renowned violinist Stephanie Anderson, who has to give up her beloved instrument as multiple sclerosis starts to take over her body. Her regular visits to psychiatrist Dr Feldmann (played with feeling by Henry Goodman), lead her through a series of highly charged encounters to examine her deepest emotions and finally to consider a future without music. Stevenson brings her all to this demanding role, leaving the audience wanting more after a two-and-a-half-hour emotional rollercoaster. This splendid revival of Tom Kempinski's 1980 play is touring before returning to London's West End in May. Stevenson ended last night's performance in Bath with a heartfelt tribute to her friend Natasha Richardson.

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