Streaming Theatre Highlights: Bacchae Ushers in New Era at the National
The National Theatre in London has embarked on a bold new chapter under artistic director Indhu Rubasingham, with a striking production of Bacchae leading the charge. This innovative take on Euripides, which premiered last autumn in the Olivier theatre, marks a significant debut for playwright Nima Taleghani, known for his role in Heartstopper. Featuring dynamic choreography by Kate Prince and a powerful performance by Clare Perkins at the helm of a raucous Greek chorus, the production will be available to stream on NT at Home from 6 February, accompanied by an exclusive Q&A with Rubasingham.
Star-Studded Shakespeare and Musical Delights
Elsewhere in the streaming landscape, Judi Dench reunites with fellow luminaries including Simon Callow, Stephen Fry, and Penelope Wilton for The Twelfth Night Reunion, a charming evening of speeches and song staged at Richmond's Orange Tree theatre, now accessible on YouTube. Meanwhile, the Barbican continues its tradition of lavish musicals with a 2024 production of Kiss Me, Kate, starring Adrian Dunbar and Stephanie J Block in Cole Porter's witty adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew, available on BBC iPlayer.
Dance Documentaries and Intimate Performances
Dance enthusiasts have much to explore this month, starting with (La)Horde: Desire, Revolt and Refuge, a BBC documentary delving into how the French collective transformed the National Ballet of Marseille, drawing inspiration from social media and strip clubs. For a more intense experience, Laura Bachman's film Trouble on Arte.tv uses close-ups to capture dancer Marion Barbeau's visceral performance of fear in urban settings, culminating in a tense duet with actor Félix Kysyl.
Additional Streaming Gems
Other notable offerings include:
- Poor Judge: A dance-theatre cabaret from Philadelphia's Wilma Theater, featuring songs by Aimee Mann, available on demand from 2 to 22 February.
- The Winter's Tale: A 1998 RSC production starring Antony Sher, directed by Gregory Doran, perfect for welcoming spring with Shakespeare's tragicomedy on the Theatre Channel.
- BBC Audio Drama Awards Finalists: Three nominated plays exploring themes from football brotherhood to the music industry, with the winner announced on 1 March.
This diverse lineup showcases the richness of theatre and dance available for streaming, from groundbreaking debuts to nostalgic reunions, ensuring there's something for every cultural appetite.
