Review: The History Boys at Old Red Lion Playhouse 14 - 25 April 2026
'Riveting, intense and funny' ★★★★★
“One of the hardest things for boys to learn is that a teacher is human.” An Alan Bennett masterpiece done with justice! A truly explosive and exceptional delivery from this cast. Set in the 1980s, in the north of England, Bennett explores education, coming of age and sexuality; as these school boys prepare for exams in their final term before heading to university. Lots of pressure, big hopes and high ambitions!
This show was performed at such a high standard; there could be a paragraph regarding each actor, so to abbreviate this commendation; every single cast member is phenomenal. Individually and collectively they knock it out of the park. Whether it is the essence of the rowdy boys, the pensive encounters or the intellectual battle of wits; every moment is full of truth. Though the play entertains challenging themes, this production is equally full of hilarity.
Acknowledgement to the creatives must mention the set design. The multi-platform design with illuminative features and a keyboard atop; this really elevates the work. Movement Director Greta Abbey works wonders; adding further dimension and momentum to the adaptation. Director Florence Carr-Jones shapes an engaging, dynamic and emotionally agile production.
What a triumph! While it is a joy to see the talent up close; this production could easily make a transfer to stages to the likes of the West End. It is a memorable revival that will most definitely stay with audiences. Riveting, intense and funny; Glassroom Company produces immensely strong storytelling. This boisterous bunch breathes life into Bennett!
Ticket Information
Performance Dates: 14th – 25th April 2026
Performance Time: 7.30pm / 2.30pm
Run Time: 150 mins (including interval)
Tickets: £26.50 / £22.50 / £20 (includes booking fee)
Presented by Glassroom Company
CAST
Amaan Patel (Akthar), Ben Harvey (Timms), Duncan Hess (Hector), Isaac Green
(Crowther), Jack Calver (Posner), Jake Dove (Dakin), James Mace (Lockwood),
Jamie Coll (Rudge), Joshua Hogan (Scripps), Leonardo Shaw (Irwin), Stefan
Brennan-Healey (Headmaster Felix) Susannah May (Mrs Lintott).
Presented by Glassroom Company
Writer Alan Bennett
Director Florence Carr-Jones
Designer Miranda Cattermole
Lighting Designer Jacob Henney
Music Director & Composer Georgia Gabrielides
Sound Designer Rafael Solimeno-Harris
Producers Jack Calver & Emilia Woodgate
Deputy Stage Manager Ash Purt
Assistant Stage Manager Carly Hendricks
Movement Director Greta Abbey
Photography
