THE DEEP BLUE SEA
by Terrence Rattigan
The National Theatre 2016
Broadcast worldwide with NT Live
Starring Helen McRory and Tom Burke
Designer Tom Scutt
Lighting Designer Guy Hoare
Music Stuart Earl
A flat in Ladbroke Grove, West London. 1952.
When Hester Collyer is found by her neighbours in the aftermath of a failed suicide attempt, the story of her tempestuous affair with a former RAF pilot and the breakdown of her marriage to a High Court judge begins to emerge. With it comes a portrait of need, loneliness and long-repressed passion.
Behind the fragile veneer of post-war civility burns a brutal sense of loss and longing.
★★★★★
"This production is a stand-out. Helen McCrory is fantastic. Carrie Cracknell directs with total assurance."
The Times
★★★★★
"Stunning. Exquisitely sad. Beautifully judged."
★★★★
"Helen McCrory blazes."
★★★★
"Achingly good. Helen McCrory delivers one of the performances of the year."
★★★★
"Helen McCrory floors you."
Sunday Times
★★★★
"Helen McCrory is in a different league"
★★★★
"Intoxicating. Splendid new production."
★★★★
"Deeply moving."
★★★★
"Tom Burke is excellent."