Sarah Hemming's Theatre Reviews: London Stage Highlights Spring 2026
This collection of articles by Financial Times theatre critic Sarah Hemming provides a comprehensive overview of the London theatre scene in early 2026. The reviews cover a diverse array of productions, ranging from classic revivals to contemporary new works. Key highlights include Sadie Sink’s luminous performance in Robert Icke’s Romeo & Juliet at the Harold Pinter Theatre and a fresh revival of Michael Frayn’s Copenhagen at the Hampstead Theatre, which explores nuclear brinkmanship. Hemming also examines the enduring relevance of Arthur Miller, discussing new productions of The Crucible through a modern lens and Broken Glass. Other notable mentions include The Authenticator at the National Theatre, which investigates the legacy of slavery, and Jaja’s African Hair Braiding at the Lyric Hammersmith. The column features interviews with prominent figures such as Romola Garai and director Jordan Fein, offering insights into their artistic processes. Through these critiques, Hemming analyzes how current theatrical offerings reflect societal issues like grief, conflict, and moral ambiguity, establishing the stage as a vital barometer for contemporary cultural and political discourse in the UK.
Wire timeline
Sarah Hemming's Theatre Reviews: London Stage Highlights Spring 2026
This collection of articles by Financial Times theatre critic Sarah Hemming provides a comprehensive overview of the London theatre scene in early 2026. The reviews cover a diverse array of productions, ranging from classic revivals to contemporary new works. Key highlights include Sadie Sink’s luminous performance in Robert Icke’s Romeo & Juliet at the Harold Pinter Theatre and a fresh revival of Michael Frayn’s Copenhagen at the Hampstead Theatre, which explores nuclear brinkmanship. Hemming also examines the enduring relevance of Arthur Miller, discussing new productions of The Crucible through a modern lens and Broken Glass. Other notable mentions include The Authenticator at the National Theatre, which investigates the legacy of slavery, and Jaja’s African Hair Braiding at the Lyric Hammersmith. The column features interviews with prominent figures such as Romola Garai and director Jordan Fein, offering insights into their artistic processes. Through these critiques, Hemming analyzes how current theatrical offerings reflect societal issues like grief, conflict, and moral ambiguity, establishing the stage as a vital barometer for contemporary cultural and political discourse in the UK.
ft