MARY STUART Reviews

[LimelightMike]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 12:43am

Today is Sunday, April the 19th, which marks the OFFICIAL Broadway opening for the Donmar Warehouse's production of MARY STUART. Let us welcome this production, coming from all the way across the pond (with much acclaim and buzz already), playing a strictly limited 20-week engagement at the Broadhurst Theatre, having begun preview performances March 30.

Janet McTeer (Mary Stuart, Queen of Scotland) and Harriet Walter (Elizabeth, Queen of England), who both starred in the London production, are joined onstage by Michael Countryman, AAdam Greer, John Benjamin Hickey, Michael Rudko, Robert Stanton, Maria Tucci, Chandler Williams, Nicholas Woodeson and Brian Murray, and features Jacqueline Antaramian, Tony Carlin, Monique Fowler and Guy Paul, rounding out the company.

According to press notes, MARY STUART "is a thrilling account of the extraordinary relationship between England's Elizabeth I (Harriet Walter) and her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots (Janet McTeer), Elizabeth's rival to the throne. With its behind the scenes intrigue, scheming and betrayal, the play has the contemporary feel of a modern-day political thriller."

My best to all involved.

Break legs, all!

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 7:25pm

Don't see any reviews yet, but bumping this thread for when they do start popping up.

[Play Esq.]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 7:49pm

Variety is a RAVE:

http://www.variety.com/VE1117940074.html

Politics and power, in any age, are a dirty business. If the first Broadway transfer from the Donmar Warehouse, "Frost/Nixon," was a keen reminder of that point, the London company's second transatlantic traveler, "Mary Stuart," imparts the lesson even more trenchantly. The setting is late 16th-century England, and the writing dates back to 1800, but the spin, chicanery and ruthless self-preservation of a government that both abides by and manipulates public perception are timeless. Phyllida Lloyd's steely revival of the Friedrich Schiller play simmers and scalds as it should, but it's the deft balance of the parallel tragedies of two imprisoned queens that makes the production so enthralling.

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 10:01pm

TheaterMania is Very Positive:

"Do you want to behold true Broadway bravura? Then make a bee-line to the Broadhurst Theatre, where Janet McTeer and Harriet Walter are blasting from the stage like twin cannonades in Phyllida Lloyd's production of Friedrich Schiller's swanky costume drama Mary Stuart, in which McTeer plays the title role and Walter is Queen Elizabeth I. Not surprisingly, with this majestic pair dominating the combustible material like the monarchs they're impersonating, woe be unto anyone who tries crossing their path.

...

Those who saw the show's London Donmar Warehouse production in its original thrust-stage venue (also with McTeer and Walter) may have to deal with an adjustment seeing it on a proscenium stage. Some depth has been lost, a development further exaggerated by Ward moving forward his false and painted-black back wall. The change has flattened the play in more ways than one, too often giving it the diminishing look of an historical tableau. Luckily, though, there's no flattening the brilliance of Walter and McTeer. "

http://www.theatermania.com/broadway/reviews/04-2009/mary-stuart_18586.html


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Backstage is Very Positive:

"Though the first few rounds are a trifle sluggish, the Donmar Warehouse production of Friedrich Schiller's Mary Stuart builds into a thrilling bout between battling royalty. As adapted by Peter Oswald and directed with a contemporary angle by Phyllida Lloyd, this 18th-century chestnut set in the 16th century has the look and feel of the 21st. The male characters are decked out in drab modern business suits, and the religious conflicts between England and Scotland come across as remarkably similar to tensions between Israel and the Arab countries or between Sunnis and Shiites. Oswald's use of words such as negotiations and terror give the play a relevant sting.

...

The first act is difficult to get through, with tons of exposition and Anthony Ward's black-and-gray sets and costumes providing little visual distraction. But the second act opens with a storm -- literally. The highly anticipated meeting between the imprisoned but defiant Mary and the triumphant yet insecure Elizabeth begins in an onstage downpour. It's a stunning stage effect and sets up the central conflict brilliantly: Mary sensuously rejoices in the rain, running freely with arms outstretched, while Elizabeth cowers under an umbrella, surrounded by her courtiers. From there, Mary Stuart delivers several dramatic roundhouses and scores a knockout."

http://www.backstage.com/bso/reviews-ny-theatre-broadway/mary-stuart-1003964116.story


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Talkin' Broadway is a Rave:

"One has been stripped of everything, yet remains as supple and optimistic as a young bride. The other has the world at her fingertips, yet can't escape the binding authority into which she was born. They're among the strongest people of their time, and yet they're slaves to posterity and its most unfeeling arbiters. These cousin queens are Mary I of Scotland and Elizabeth I of England in name, but in word and deed they're fulcra of social, sexual, and religious reformation. Most importantly, in the majestic revival of Mary Stuart that just opened at the Broadhurst, they're explosive examples of acting at its juiciest.

...

Apparently, Oswald, Lloyd, and everyone else want you to remember that the more the world changes, the more it stays the same. But even if you can't (or won't) draw such historical allusions, this Mary Stuart proves that great theater and great women, whether actresses or monarchs, never go out of style."

http://talkinbroadway.com/world/MaryStuart.html

[broadwayman17]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 10:08pm

Entertainment Weekly is B+
http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20273575,00.html

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 10:12pm

Associated Press is a Rave:

"It's quite a faceoff.

"Mary Stuart" superbly explores the link between Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, royal relatives locked in a grim battle that only one can win. But what elevates this adaptation of Friedrich Schiller's venerable play to even greater heights are the thrilling performances of the actresses who portray these formidable ladies: Janet McTeer as Mary and Harriet Walter as Elizabeth.

The suspense is palpable despite the fact we know how the play will end. Credit director Phyllida Lloyd and adapter Peter Oswald, who have created a taut tale of political intrigue, a bruising contest in which the prize is England itself.

...

But the women are the main focus here, and when the two queens finally meet in Act 2 after an artfully prolonged build-up, the fireworks are more than royal. Call them electrifying, lifting this version of "Mary Stuart" into the realm of high-powered, classic drama."

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2009/04/19/entertainment/e160010D25.DTL

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 10:15pm

The New York Times is already a Critics Pick and a Rave:

"You can argue all you like, as historians and theologians have for centuries, about which of them has the greater claim to the English throne. But after seeing the terrifically exciting new production of Friedrich Schiller’s “Mary Stuart,” which opened Sunday night at the Broadhurst Theater, you won’t doubt that both the queens it portrays are born to rule. So, I might add, are the actresses who play them.

...

I don’t think it’s spoiling anything, given the image of a sopping Ms. McTeer in the ads, to say that the Biggest Moment of all is when the two heroines meet. It’s in the midst of a splendidly simulated rainstorm. Elizabeth, true to form, stays dry, both physically and in manner. Mary is lusciously wet, a natural woman exulting in temporary freedom and, spurred on by the presence of a potential lover, speaking far more naturally than is good for her.

That encounter, for the record, never really happened. But you have to be grateful that Schiller invented it, if for no other reason than it allows Ms. Walter and Ms. McTeer to fire insults like archers with flaming arrows. You probably know how this battle ends according to history. But as it’s waged in this production, I’d have to call the outcome a spectacularly entertaining draw."

http://theater2.nytimes.com/2009/04/20/theater/reviews/20mary.html?pagewanted=1
"
Updated On: 4/19/09 at 10:15 PM

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 10:21pm

The Hollywood Reporter is Very Positive:

"Bottom Line: Friedrich von Schiller's 200-year-old historical drama comes to blazing theatrical life.

Friedrich von Schiller's 1800 historical drama of royal intrigue comes to blazing life in director Phyllida Lloyd's staging, imported to Broadway after hugely acclaimed stints at London's Donmar Warehouse and on the West End. Starring Janet McTeer and Harriet Walter, both making far-too-belated returns to the New York stage, "Mary Stuart" looks to be the prestige hit of the spring season.

...

Walter and McTeer deliver superbly riveting performances. The former is all tight control, gradually peeling away Elizabeth's formidable reserve to display the deep anguish caused by her immense responsibilities, and the latter provides an emotive, vigorous turn that emphasizes Mary's passion, both physical and emotional.

..."

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/film-reviews/theater-review-mary-stuart-1003964062.story

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 11:08pm

Could this be our winner for Best Revival of a Play? These reviews are really fantastic.

[Play Esq.]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 11:17pm

As much as I liked this production...I have to go with Joe Turner for best revival. Though it will be a great race!

[theaterkid1015]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 11:19pm

I saw the play (not this production) a few years back, and it really is an under appreciated work. I'm very much hoping to catch this production.

[bjh2114]

Posted: 4/19/09 at 11:24pm

I was at opening night tonight, and it was electric. This is not a show to miss. The performances are spectacular. Watching the two women is like watching an acting master class. This is sure to be nominated for Best Revival, alongside Joe Turner and Norman Conquests. What a great year.

[MiracleElixir]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 12:45am

Yeah, I don't think Play Revival is going to be the easiest category to call. NORMAN CONQUESTS, JOE TURNER and MARY STUART are all going to end up raved at the end of the day.

[TalkinLoud]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 12:52am

Play Revival is a bloodbath this year.

In addition to the ones you mentioned MiracleElixir, I think All My Sons, Blithe Spirit, and Exit the King all have very real shots as well.

[Kad]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 1:01am

Speed-the-Plow and The Seagull shouldn't be discounted, either.

How wonderful for a season in which nearly every play revival was a critical success.

[MiracleElixir]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 1:09am

Ack, it IS a bloodbath

Speed the Plow
The Seagull
All My Sons
Joe Turner's Come and Gone
Mary Stuart
Exit the King
The Norman Conquests
Blithe Spirit

Hmmm. I think Speed will be forgotten, and both Stuart and King have the potential to be overlooked, and regarded simply as acting showcases. All My Sons hasn't a shot in hell. I didn't like Blithe Spirit, but everyone else seems to, and it's doing well at the box office.

At this early juncture, I'd predict:

The Norman Conquests
Joe Turner's Come and Gone
The Seagull
Blithe Spirit

[Smaxie]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 1:23am

I think Exit or Mary will bump out Blithe Spirit, although there's still Desire Under the Elms and Waiting for Godot to consider as well.

[CyCoSpAz2]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 2:32am

Are these all the revivals this season?:

Equus
The Seagull
A Man for All Seasons
All My Sons
Speed-the-Plow
American Buffalo
Hedda Gabler
Blithe Spirit
Exit the King
Joe Turner's Come and Gone
Mary Stuart
The Norman Conquests
The Philanthropist
Desire Under the Elms
Waiting for Godot

sheesh

[Smaxie]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 5:50am

One more: Accent on Youth.

[singtopher]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 8:02am

This seems unprecedented. Has there ever been a year with this many play revivals?

[luvtheEmcee]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 8:38am

I really want to see this.

Also:

which marks the OFFICIAL Broadway opening

Am I unaware of some sort of unofficial opening night?

[Ed_Mottershead]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 8:54am

I think part of the reason for the plethora of Best Play Revival contenders is that many were productions of either the Roundabout or Manhattan Theatre Club, now both firmly ensconced in Broadway houses and both subscription houses. Remove the two of them and we'd have: All My Sons; Blithe Spirit; Joe Turner (and that's Lincoln Center); Norman Conquests; Exit the King; and Mary Stuart. All of them would be worthy contenders in any season.

Updated On: 4/20/09 at 08:54 AM

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 8:56am

Vincentelli (from The Post) is starting to piss me off a little. Her review is Very Positive but she gives it three stars:

"SPRING has brought plenty of hyped shows and stars to Broadway. But don't let those high- wattage marquees blind you to this sleeper, which delivers plenty more thrills than most of its neighbors.

A London import as gripping as it is elegant, "Mary Stuart" is packed with political machinations, mind games and rhetorical bouts about justice and power. Think of it as "Frost/Nixon" with women, beheadings and ruffs.

...

McTeer, who won a Tony in 1997 for "A Doll's House," brilliantly shows how someone can be vulnerable and manipulative at the same time. Her Mary isn't easy to love, just like Walter's Elizabeth, waffling underneath her granite-like rigidity, isn't easy to hate.

..."

http://www.nypost.com/seven/04202009/entertainment/theater/queens_for_any_day_165301.htm

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 8:59am

New York Daily News is Mixed to Positive:

"...With Tony winner Janet McTeer ("A Doll's House") as Mary and Harriet Walter as Elizabeth, who signed her rival's death warrant, there's a pair of powerhouses on the thrones of Scotland and England.
The talky first act is a long runup to a fictitious meeting between the queens, which comes after intermission and finally gets this potboiler bubbling.

The scene gives the mighty McTeer a chance to roar, while Walter's Elizabeth eviscerates with a withering gaze. In the end, the portrait of Elizabeth ? imperious and insecure, manipulator and puppet ? is more complete.

..."

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/arts/2009/04/20/2009-04-20_a_family_battle_royal_in_mary_stuart.html

[WiCkEDrOcKS]

Posted: 4/20/09 at 9:04am

AMNewYork is mixed:

"...McTeer soars with as the impulsive and fervently Catholic Mary, whose outrageous passion comes with the price of her head. Walter, on the other hand, is brutally cold and inwardly calculating as Elizabeth, who is instead committed to playing the political game and staying in power.

This production was obviously shipped to New York following its London premiere to showcase the subtle, layered performances of its leading actresses. But whether audiences will also appreciate the rest of the play is questionable.

Peter Oswald?s translation is fairly clear, but too verbose and workmanlike, leading to a production that is nearly three hours in length

..."

http://weblogs.amny.com/entertainment/stage/blog/2009/04/theater_review_of_mary_stuart.html