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History tribute to Bennett’s genius
HISTORY BOYS
Wyndham’s Theatre
ALMOST three years ago Alan Bennett’s the History Boys became a sparkling success at the National Theatre.
Set in a sixth form classroom in a northern grammar school in the 1980s it is presided over by Hector, an intuitive and occasionally violently eccentric 60-year-old teacher.
His eight pupils probably stem from Bennett’s own experience in Leeds Modern, a state grammar school in 1951.
The headmaster is obsessed with the glory of successful entries into Oxford or Cambridge.
Unable to control Hector, the head employs Irwin, a young crammer to steer the boys down more recognisable channels as examinations loom. The boys respond to Irwin’s swish dialectic but Hector’s scenarios were never less than challenging.
Bennett’s comic genius has earned the History Boys critical accolades, theatrical awards, six Tony’s and successful film and worldwide tours.
The affable Stephen Moore as Hector has stepped into Richard Griffiths’s shoes – if not his enormous tweed suits. A little uneasy on the first night, but Griffiths does cast his enormous shadow over the play.
This is not just enjoyment but Bennett flitting through a kind, poignant humanitarian memory book.
Remember what Anna sang to the children of the King of Siam. “If you become a teacher, by your pupils you’ll be taught.”
Until Apr 14
CNJ booking line: 0870 040 0070 |
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