Great Britain Description
Great Britain is suitable for ages 15+ as strong language from the outset.
Great Britain is an aptly timed “anarchic satire” that is centred on the corruption of the press, politics and the police. The satirical comedy deals with contemporary controversies involving phone hacking, MPs’ expenses and the interaction between the media, politicians and the police.
The satirical comedy is written by English playwright Richard Bean, who has won a handful of awards, including the Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards 2011 for Best New Play One Man, Two Guvnors.
Comedienne Lucy Punch, known for her Hollywood work including Bad Teacher, Hot Fuzz and Dinner for Schmucks, plays the merciless news editor named Paige Britain. The paper – pertinently named the Free Press – is run by a crude editor. In an incessant rush to sell more newspapers, the tabloid gets wrapped up in a sleazy array of prying, phone hacking and bribery.
Since premiering on 30 June 2014 at the Royal National Theatre, Great Britain has certainly caused a stir and the theatre-critics pens have been busy scribbling, namely complimentary reviews.
“Blessedly funny. Bracing topicality. Richard Bean doesn’t do things by halves,” wrote the Guardian.
The Independent was focused on the hilarity of the show stating: “Laughter-making on an industrial scale.”
The play is designed by Tim Hatley, winner of the Tony Award for Best Set Design and Best Costume Design and the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Set Design.
The ‘fast and furious’ play will run at the Theatre Royal Haymarket until January 10, 2015.
Booking Dates
First Performance
Thursday 1st January 1970
Last Performance
Thursday 1st January 1970
