“The Deep Blue Sea” at Chichester
The reviewers mostly got this right, as to the production. But several missed the main point about the nature of Rattigan's themes, and especially as we see them at work in this play. Read more...
Richard D North.
On culture, Nature, liberal issues, monasticism, spiritualityPage 32 of all posts
“The Syndicate” at Chichester
This is a wonderful show, and Dominic Maxwell in The Times gets it more right, I think, than Michael Billington in the Guardian. But I would briefly add... Read more...
A 2nd defence of Murdoch
The accusations against Rupert Murdoch's empire have always been numerous. But not all of them stack up. Here goes at unpicking a few.. Read more...
A defence of Murdoch and News Corp
I've had a comment that my review of the revived Hare and Brenton play Pravda (Chichester, 2006) was wrong-headed in its defence of Rupert Murdoch and that I should, in the light of current events, apologise for it. I see my critic's point, I hope, but I don't agree.... Read more...
RDN due on BBC1’s Sunday Morning Live
I've been booked for the BBC TV's Sunday ethics and religion show, and here are some sketches of what I hope to say... Read more...
House of Lords reform: a turning tide
The House of Lords works pretty well and arguably most recent reforms have made it a little less good at its work. Making it an elected house might well scupper it. Here is a very brief account of the reforms we need, and those we don't... Read more...
BBC impartiality: three cases
John Lloyd (who is one of my moral compasses) writes in his FT TV review (18/19 June 2011) that the BBC's great prides are "enlightenment values and devotion to impartiality". But, as he defines them, are these compatible? Read more...
Win Win: **** going on *****
You expect Tom McCarthy to be marvellous: The Station Agent and The Visitor set a high bar. But this new one can more than hold its own: it has a morally complex story, a real development, lovely acting from everyone. It’s a feel-good piece, but has no hint of vulgarity about… Read more...
My Dog Tulip: 3 stars?
I was ho-hum about The Illusionist and an absolute sucker for Waltz With Bashir. So I was bound to be curious about My Dog Tulip. My first tiny beef is that (like The Illusionist, if I recall) this period piece couldn't be bothered to get the London taxis half-way right. And I wasn't at all sure about the accuracy of Ackerley's Putney flat either. Such things are not small beer, and can mar good work.... Read more...
RDN on The Big Questions
I've been asked to have a go at a Big Question for this show, tomorrow. Here goes.... Read more...