Archive · 15 Jan 2026
The Rivals: A Lively 1927 Retelling
A famous old play called 'The Rivals' is being performed in a new and exciting way.
The director, Tom Littler, moved the story from the 1700s to the 1920s.
This makes the play feel fresh and fun.
There are colorful costumes, fancy sets, and lots of jokes.
The actors do a great job, and the play is full of silly mistakes and funny moments.
It's like watching a lively, entertaining show with lots of laughter.
The play is being shown in London and will also travel to other cities.
Director Tom Littler updates Richard Brinsley Sheridan's 'The Rivals' to a 1927 setting, adding modern elements like cars and telephones.
The production features a 'skipping pace' and 'attractive gilded art deco friezes' with colorful period costumes.
Patricia Hodge stars as Mrs Malaprop, with Kit Young as Jack Absolute, Robert Bathurst as Sir Anthony Absolute, Zoe Brough as Lydia Languish, and Boadicea Ricketts as Julia Melville.
The play is praised for its 'slick and colorful' revival, 'savvy comic performances,' and 'thoroughly entertaining' spectacle.
The updated setting and additional gags make the play 'lively' and 'farcical,' appealing to modern audiences.
- Who
- Director Tom Littler and actors Patricia Hodge, Kit Young, Robert Bathurst, Zoe Brough, and Boadicea Ricketts
- What
- A lively retelling of Richard Brinsley Sheridan's 18th-century comedy 'The Rivals' set in 1927
- When
- Until 24 January, then Theatre Royal Bath (27-31 January) and The Arts Theatre, Cambridge (3-7 February)
- Where
- Orange Tree Theatre, London, then touring to Theatre Royal Bath and The Arts Theatre, Cambridge
- Why
- To bring a 'sparkier' and more modern version of the classic play to audiences
- Director
- Tom Littler
- Playwright
- Richard Brinsley Sheridan
- Lead Actress
- Patricia Hodge (Mrs Malaprop)
- Setting
- 1927 (updated from 1775)
- Theatre
- Orange Tree Theatre, London
- Run Dates
- Until 24 January, then Theatre Royal Bath (27-31 January) and The Arts Theatre, Cambridge (3-7 February)
- Key Performers
- Kit Young (Jack Absolute), Robert Bathurst (Sir Anthony Absolute), Zoe Brough (Lydia Languish), Boadicea Ricketts (Julia Melville)