A Streetcar Named Desire

Gillian Anderson stars in this classic play

In what has turned out to be the Young Vic's fastest selling show in its history, with tickets selling out faster than they can release them and with the run being extended two weeks before it has even opened, it is fair to say that this is one of the most anticipated star team ups on the London stage this year.

Directed by Benedict Andrews, Gillian Anderson stars as the ill-fated Blanche DuBois, opposite screen and stage star Ben Foster as the brutish Stanley. Rising star Vanessa Kirby will join them as Stella, Stanley's demure, long-suffering wife.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT?

When faded Southern belle Blanche finds her decadent life crumbling around her, she falls on the mercy of her timid sister Stella for some relief. However, she didn't factor in Stella's domineering husband Stanley, who is determined to control his wife ahead of the birth of their first child. A strong sexual marriage is suggested between the two, as well as frequent arguments and threats to leave him.

Blanche is intrigued with the dynamics of their relationship, and attempts to attract new men by holding court in the Kowalski's apartment, to Stanley's anger. Blanche and Stanley butt heads constantly, and a huge confrontation between the two lead to a devastating fate for Blanche as she finally experiences a psychotic breakdown.