Gary Oldman Delivers Powerful Performance in Krapp’s Last Tape at York Theatre Royal
A poignant and powerful production of Samuel Beckett’s Krapp’s Last Tape has opened at the York Theatre Royal, starring none other than Gary Oldman. This production marks Oldman’s return to the stage, a place where he debuted back in 1979. In a touching gesture, Oldman has dedicated his performance to the memory of former Krapps, John Hurt and Michael Gambon, and even used the same tape recorder as they did.
According to a review by Whatsonstage, Oldman’s self-directed performance buries the actor in a vast pile of boxes, books, and cartons, at a table with a tape recorder and a solitary light above. The set design, also created by Oldman, is a fitting backdrop for the play’s exploration of time and memory. As Whatsonstage notes, "He heaves himself into view from somewhere below this mound at the start, but otherwise moves very little." This minimalist approach allows the audience to focus on Oldman’s masterful performance.
The play itself is a masterclass in storytelling, with Krapp, a 69-year-old man, reflecting on his life through a series of tape recordings. As Whatsonstage observes, "Krapp eats bananas, every movement studied, then silence apart from the odd noise until he sets out to find the right spool: he plays with the word ‘spool’ delightedly." The tape recorder becomes a tool for Krapp to relive his past, and Oldman’s performance skilfully conveys the character’s disappointment and frustration.
One of the standout aspects of Oldman’s performance is his ability to distinguish between the old and young Krapp. Whatsonstage notes that "Oldman distinguishes precisely the old and young Krapp, vocally much stronger and more confident on tape, finding a sort of battered vehemence for the old man." The tape recorder allows Oldman to present simultaneously three periods of a man’s life, and he does so with total conviction.
The production has also sparked reflection on the play’s themes and its place in the theatrical canon. As Whatsonstage wonders, "While we are speculating about time, what, one wonders, would Samuel Beckett make of a 1958 curtain-raiser, written because of his delight at the great Irish actor Patrick Magee’s voice, becoming a major theatre occasion in its own right?" This production is a testament to the enduring power of Beckett’s work and Oldman’s skill as an actor.
While the production has received widespread acclaim, Whatsonstage notes that the 750-seater York Theatre Royal may be a size too big for this intimate play. However, this does not detract from Oldman’s remarkable performance, which is not to be missed. As Whatsonstage concludes, "Personally, watching Oldman’s meticulous and detailed performance from a seat in the circle, I found York’s 750 seater a size too big for a play which I have enjoyed in the past in less distinguished close-up performances in studio-size settings."
In a career spanning decades, Gary Oldman has solidified his position as one of the most respected actors of our time. This production of Krapp’s Last Tape is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts and anyone interested in experiencing the best of British theatre. With its powerful performances, poignant themes, and masterful storytelling, this production is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences.
The review from Whatsonstage provides an in-depth analysis of the production, highlighting Oldman’s impressive performance and the play’s exploration of time and memory. As the reviewer notes, "The tape recorder enables him to present simultaneously three periods of a man’s life – and he does so with total conviction." This production is a testament to the enduring power of Beckett’s work and Oldman’s skill as an actor.
For those interested in learning more about the production, Whatsonstage provides a wealth of information on their website, including reviews, interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights. With its comprehensive coverage of the theatre scene, Whatsonstage is a leading source for news and reviews on the latest productions.
In conclusion, Krapp’s Last Tape at the York Theatre Royal is a production that should not be missed. With its powerful performances, poignant themes, and masterful storytelling, this production is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences. As Whatsonstage so eloquently puts it, "Gary Oldman’s meticulous and detailed performance" is a sight to behold, and this production is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts and anyone interested in experiencing the best of British theatre.
The production will run at the York Theatre Royal, with tickets available now. For more information, visit the theatre’s website or Whatsonstage.
Sources:
https://www.whatsonstage.com/news/krapps-last-tape-with-gary-oldman-at-york-theatre-royal-review_1675188/ – This article was originally published on Whatsonstage, a leading source for news and reviews on the latest theatre productions.
