REVIEW: CYRANO DE BERGERAC at the Swan Theatre, RSC
Marc Brenner
The RSC’s new season is packed with weighty, thought provoking productions and, as expected, a generous serving of Shakespeare. Among such a line up of classics, Cyrano de Bergerac might not have been the obvious choice for the season’s biggest success, yet it has all the ingredients to be just that.
Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac is a story that transcends time. It explores love, pride and the masks we wear to hide our true selves. This new version, adapted by Simon Evans and Debris Stevenson, takes a bold and contemporary approach that still honours the poetic heart of the original. The result is an evening that is as moving as it is entertaining, and one that leaves the audience completely spellbound.
Adrian Lester leads the cast as Cyrano, the brilliant poet and swordsman cursed, in his own mind, by his unusually large nose. Lester’s performance is captivating from the moment he steps on stage. He captures Cyrano’s razor sharp wit and bravado while allowing glimpses of the deep insecurity and tenderness beneath the surface. His command of language, timing and emotion makes this a truly memorable performance.
The moment Cyrano appears, his nose naturally becomes a source of comedy, both for the audience and the other characters. You might expect this familiar gag to grow tired, yet in Evans and Stevenson’s hands it feels fresh and surprisingly layered. The humour surrounding it becomes a tool for exploring self image, identity and acceptance. The first major duel sequence is a particular highlight, blending expertly timed comedy with moments of real danger. It ends in bloodshed and offers a glimpse of the tragic depth that lies ahead.
We soon meet Roxane, played by Susannah Fielding with poise and sparkle, accompanied by her delightful sidekick Abigail. Together, they form an irresistible double act. Roxane’s intelligence, wit and warmth make it instantly clear why Cyrano adores her. Their scenes bring a perfect balance of comedy and emotional honesty, lifting the production every time they appear.
Music plays a vital role throughout. Cyrano’s onstage trio of musicians follow him as though he has his own personal soundtrack, offering moments of levity as well as emotional weight. The original score is seamlessly woven into the action and brings a cohesion to the piece that is deeply satisfying. In the final act, set fifteen years later, the return of the same musical themes creates a haunting sense of nostalgia, reminding us of all that has changed and all that has been lost.
Visually, the production is stunning. The set is full of hidden corners and clever mechanisms that allow smooth transitions from the winding streets of Paris to the brutality of the battlefield. Each location feels alive and full of atmosphere, enhanced by thoughtful lighting and immersive sound design. The attention to detail is impressive, and every element works to serve the story rather than overshadow it.
Cyrano de Bergerac remains one of theatre’s great love stories, and this production captures every ounce of its beauty and heartbreak. It is a story of courage, vulnerability and unspoken devotion, and this cast delivers it with sincerity and passion. The final scenes are devastating in their simplicity, and as the lights fade there is barely a dry eye in the house. Cyrano de Bergerac is an absolute triumph. It surprises, delights and emotes in equal measure. Quite simply, it is one of the most moving productions you will ever see.
Five Stars *****
Reviewed by Sophie Eaton
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