February's Finest Digital Theatre: From National's Bold Debut to Enchanting Reunions
As the curtain rises on a new month of digital entertainment, theatre lovers across the UK are treated to an exceptional lineup of streamed performances. Leading the charge is a landmark production from the National Theatre in London, signalling an exciting new era under fresh artistic leadership.
National Theatre's Bacchae: A Debut Playwright's Triumph
The National Theatre's newly appointed artistic director, Indhu Rubasingham, inaugurated her tenure last autumn with a spectacularly bold interpretation of Euripides' classic tragedy, Bacchae. This groundbreaking production, staged in the prestigious Olivier theatre, marks the debut playwriting effort of Nima Taleghani, best known for his role in Heartstopper.
Featuring dynamic choreography by Kate Prince and starring Clare Perkins at the helm of what's described as a "raucous Greek chorus", this vibrant production arrives on NT at Home from 6 February. Audiences will also enjoy exclusive access to a post-streaming Q&A session with Rubasingham herself, offering unique insights into this significant theatrical moment.
Barbican's Musical Extravaganza and Shakespearean Delights
Meanwhile, the Barbican continues to build its reputation for lavish summer musicals with Kiss Me, Kate now available for streaming. This sparkling 2024 production features Adrian Dunbar and Stephanie J Block as sparring partners in Cole Porter's witty musical comedy, based loosely on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. The production can be enjoyed through BBC iPlayer, bringing West End quality directly to living rooms nationwide.
Innovative Dance Documentaries Take Centre Stage
The BBC's Arts in Motion strand presents a fascinating documentary about French collective (La)Horde, exploring their revolutionary takeover of the National Ballet of Marseille. Titled Desire, Revolt and Refuge, the film examines how dance serves as "a refuge for people who need space to express themselves differently", tracing influences from social media platforms to strip club aesthetics.
Another compelling dance film, Trouble by Laura Bachman on Arte.tv, demonstrates how screen adaptations can enhance live performance through intimate close-ups. Viewers experience every visceral flinch as dancer Marion Barbeau portrays consuming fear in crowded settings, culminating in a tense duet with actor Félix Kysyl.
Judi Dench's Magical Shakespeare Reunion
In a particularly enchanting offering, Judi Dench reunites with fellow Shakespearean luminaries including Simon Callow, Stephen Fry and Penelope Wilton for The Twelfth Night Reunion. Hosted by Gyles Brandreth at Richmond's Orange Tree theatre, this delightful evening of speeches and songs celebrates memories of performing Shakespeare's bittersweet masterpiece. The entire production is freely available on YouTube, offering a rare glimpse into theatrical camaraderie.
Additional February Highlights
The streaming schedule offers further diversity with:
- Poor Judge: A seductive dance-theatre cabaret featuring songs by Aimee Mann, available from Philadelphia's Wilma Theater between 2-22 February
- The Winter's Tale: A handsome 1998 RSC production starring Antony Sher as Leontes, directed by Gregory Doran
- BBC Audio Drama Awards Finalists: All three nominees for best original single drama available online, including works by Roy Williams, the late Oliver Emanuel, and Joe von Malachowski with Will Close
This rich February selection demonstrates how digital platforms are expanding access to world-class theatre, from groundbreaking National Theatre productions to intimate dance films and star-studded Shakespeare celebrations. With the winner of the BBC Audio Drama Awards to be revealed on 1 March, theatre streaming continues to offer compelling alternatives to traditional venue attendance.
