Andrew Scott’s Vanya and an Othello Featuring Three Iagos

Vanya

Andrew Scott showcases his versatility by playing every role in Simon Stephens’ Olivier award-winning adaptation of Uncle Vanya. Impressively, he navigates the intimate scenes, such as the encounter between Helena and Michael, entirely on his own. Filmed at the Duke of York’s theatre during a sold-out London run last year, this captivating performance has a “live premiere” on National Theatre at Home on 19 September.

People, Places & Things

NT at Home also features the recent revival of Duncan Macmillan’s addiction drama, starring Denise Gough. It is paired with Vanya for a double bill on 19 September. This offers a unique opportunity to witness two of the West End’s most talked-about performances back-to-back.

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Filmed in a rehearsal room at the London Coliseum during the 2020 lockdown, the 2004 meta-musical by Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell creates a backstage drama from the collaboration of two unsung composers working on a new show. It promises quirky fun, with a talented cast including Marc Elliot, Tyrone Huntley, Lucie Jones, and Jenna Russell. Available on BroadwayHD.

My Favorite Things

Theatre Royal Drury Lane hosted a glittering Rodgers and Hammerstein tribute last winter to mark the 80th anniversary of Oklahoma! Now accessible via various streaming platforms, the concert features songs from South Pacific and The Sound of Music, with Audra McDonald delivering the show’s title number.

Central Intelligence

Eloise Page was among the first women to join the CIA when it was established in 1947, dedicating four decades to the agency. Radio 4’s 10-part audio drama, available on BBC Sounds from 13 September, brings Page’s insights to life, with Kim Cattrall portraying Page and co-starring Ed Harris and Johnny Flynn.

More Than One Story

Cardboard Citizens, Black Apron Entertainment, and the Big Issue have teamed up to present a series of short monologues aimed at challenging stereotypes about homelessness. Featuring playwrights such as Sonali Bhattacharyya, Roy Williams, Naomi Westerman, and Charlie Josephine, this compelling series promises thought-provoking narratives.

Othello

In Sinéad Rushe’s brisk and condensed tragedy, Iago is played by a trio of actors: Jeremy Neumark Jones, Orlando James, and Michael C Fox, who also composes the music. This unique take on Othello was filmed at Riverside Studios last autumn and is available on Original Online from 27 September (or 6 September for members).

The Varnishing Days

John Kearns, known for his theatrical stand-up performances, recorded his touring show The Varnishing Days at London’s Royal Court. Now available from Now, the show sees the comedian, who favors a tonsure, reflecting on painting and parenthood. The Guardian’s Brian Logan described it as “the finest set of his career so far.”

Anti-Racist Shakespeare

Shakespeare’s Globe presents a series of webinars that examine the Bard’s plays through the lens of race and social justice. These insightful sessions feature thoughts from scholars, actors, playwrights, and directors on works ranging from Romeo and Juliet to Henry VIII. This series complements the Globeplayer’s existing catalogue of past productions.

Each summer, Arte.TV streams a premiere from the Avignon festival. For 2024, it will be a show by the Franco-Catalan circus company Baro d’Evel. Their creations, described as “ceremonies,” often pose deep questions. This particular performance sees performers wading through a sea of plastic bottles in an exploration of the query, “who are we?” Available until 5 October.

Source: National Theatre at Home, BroadwayHD, BBC Sounds, Original Online, Now, Arte.TV