The world of theatre has seen some remarkable productions this year, and this article highlights the top 10 most innovative theatrical productions of 2019. From “The Jungle,” a play that provides a personal insight into the lives of refugees in France, to “Hadestown,” an ancient Greek myth retold through modern-day lens, these productions have pushed the boundaries of theatre and offered fresh and exciting ways to tell stories. Each production is unique in its own way, but they all share a common thread of captivating the audience and taking them on a journey of laughter, tears, and contemplation.
The 10 Most Innovative Theatrical Productions of the Year
1. “The Jungle”
“The Jungle” is a play that provides a very personal insight into the lives of refugees in Calais, France, and has been recognised by critics as one of the most substantial pieces of theatre of the year. The show is set in a recreated Afghan Cafe (reminiscent of those in the camp) and tells the stories of people who have fled war-torn homes in hope of finding a better life. Described as “immersive theatre,” the audience gets to sit at the same tables and experience the same smells and noises as real diners would in the camp.
2. “Company”
A former-Broadway classic was brought back with a bang this year in the form of the gender-switched reboot of Stephen Sondheim’s cult favorite, “Company.” The cast features a brilliant ensemble led by the terrifically talented Katrina Lenk and the production has been lauded as an adaptation that works in all ways and builds upon the strengths of its source material.
3. “When We Have Sufficiently Tortured Each Other”
The name might be a mouthful, but this production is as intriguing as it sounds. When Cate Blanchett makes her appearance on stage it’s clear that this play is not like the others. The production approaches sexual BDSM norms and the casting of one of the most famous female actors in the world in such an unconventional part was groundbreaking.
4. “The Inheritance”
“The Inheritance” takes the classic “Howards End” and gives it a contemporary spin with a gay couple at its center. This is a production that makes the observer think and focuses on the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. With the help of a gifted cast and a profound story, it was created to become one of the most important plays of the year.
5. “Fiddler on the Roof”
“Fiddler on the Roof” is a classic production that has been made fresh by director Joel Grey. With fresh choreography, new visuals, and an electrifying cast, this production showed us why the story of the Jewish ancestors strikes a chord for all audiences.
6. “Hamilton”
“Hamilton” is a production that swept award shows with its innovative project. The musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda has been captivating audiences during its multiple sold-out shows for several years, and the current UK production has continued to wow audiences with its groundbreaking take on history.
7. “The Lehman Trilogy”
“The Lehman Trilogy” is an incredible play that spans over a century from the Lehman brothers’ arrival in America to the fall of Lehman Brothers. With a digital set that evolves with the passage of time and three performers playing over 20 roles, this production takes on a new level of interactivity.
8. “Hadestown”
“Hadestown” tells ancient stories of Greek gods through a modern-day lens. The use of music, surreal sets, and incredible production design puts this play in a class of its own. The show is a complex political allegory, and it’s delivered with a particular charm to make it a timeless piece of theatre.
9. “Slave Play”
“Slave Play” is a thought-provoking play that examines the perception of the concept of slavery in modern times. The play has an exceptional cast that delivers a performance like none other. It’s a current production that is worthy of all the attention it has garnered.
10. “The Waverly Gallery”
“The Waverly Gallery” by Kenneth Lonergan is a play that focuses on depicting the forlornness that comes with the elderly age. The production features an outstanding performance by Elaine May that resonates with viewers on an emotional level. The insightful direction and intimate atmosphere create a captivating production that will induce a range of emotions out of its viewers.
In conclusion, there have been some tremendous theatrical productions over the past year and it is hard to whittle them down to just ten. These productions pushed the boundaries of theatre and offered new and exciting ways to tell stories. From immersive productions to new twists on classics, these plays were a journey of laughter, tears, and deep contemplation that wholly immersed audiences in their world.