Scott-Thomas and Sewell revive Pinter classic

There could hardly be a more apt play to be selected as one of the first productions in the recently renamed Harold Pinter Theatre, than Pinter's own Old Times. Ian Rickson's incarnation of this gripping, confounding play features a trio of some of the finest acting talent in theatre and film: Kristin Scott Thomas, Rufus Sewell and Lia Williams, each who give career-defining performances in this production.

A classic Pinter work, its ambiguous storyline has been subject to many different interpretations. Rickson?s direction teases out different possible meanings for the audience to guess at, but never to the point where it is unsubtle. The cast all give alluring, absorbing performances, perfectly in keeping with the tone. This is an utterly entrancing piece of classic theatre, done full justice by the cast and crew.

What is Old Times about?

Old Times concerns the relationship between three people: Kate and Deeley, who are married, and the mysterious Anna. Kate and Deeley are paid a visit by Anna, who twenty years prior lived with Kate, which surprises Deeley, as he claims never to have met Kate. They begin to recount anecdotes from their past, and a strange tension develops between Anna and Deeley, as they trade stories, each claiming to have been the original, most faithful companion to Kate.

Neither audience nor the characters can be sure of the truth, as memories are manipulated to best serve present interests. A fascinating air of mystery develops, leaving the audience to draw their own conclusions...