Tom Stoppard's 'Leopoldstadt' is a very powerful play, though not easy to get into at first, and even despite being set initially over a century ago and going through time it has a lot of relevance. Especially in the last chapter. Have always gotten a lot of enjoyment going to the cinema to see the National Theatre Live screenings, and love the authentic atmosphere and accessibility. Same with the opera and ballet live broadcasts from especially the Met and Royal Opera.
What an every bit as powerful production of 'Leopoldstadt' this was. Am not quite sure it is quite one of the best National Theatre Live productions (though there are so many great ones that picking highlights is hard), but when it comes to the most hard hitting and most emotional 'Leopoldstadt' for me has definitely got to be up there. A large part of it is down to the subject matter, but the production explores it so movingly and boldly that it is very hard to not be moved.
It is admittedly slow going at first and it is initially not easy keeping up with so many characters (if there is a criticism of the play it is that it perhaps has too many characters), some of whom sketchy.
Other than that, the production is wonderful. It is very strikingly designed, with the stately, opulent look of the earlier parts contrasting beautifully and unsettlingly with the darker, horror film-like one of the latter parts. Loved the photography's intimacy, without it being too claustrophobic. Stoppard's writing is intelligent and uncompromising, delivered with grit and sensitivity by a uniformly first rate cast. Hard to pick a standout, but Sebastian Armesto is riveting in the final chapter.
Staging wise, 'Leopoldstadt' is a near triumph, very thought provoking, bold in how it doesn't shy away at showing the full horrors of WWII and sensitive, while keeping things cohesive. The dramatic highlight is the Kristallnacht invasion which is incredibly tense, while the final moments are also unforgettably heart-rending and haunting.
Concluding, wonderful once it finds its groove. 9/10.
