No equivocation from us nor the critics on this one. While my “very good” report on many pieces covers a range of satisfaction, for this one I wrote:
One of the very best…
…which is not something I wrote often. I very clearly recall Janie and I walking out after Closer saying “wow” to each other.
Patrick Marber himself directed it and we were skilful/fortunate to see the original cast at the Cottesloe as this production upscaled in the light of rave reviews, multiple awards and huge audiences. We saw Liza Walker, Clive Owen, Ciaran Hinds and Sally Dexter. Here is the Theatricalia entry.
Here are the pick of the reviews.
First up – Charles Spencer in the Telegraph raving about it:
Closer Spencer Telegraph 30 May 1997, Fri The Daily Telegraph (London, Greater London, England) Newspapers.com
Michael Billington in The Guardian described it as a triumph and a great play:
Closer Billington Guardian 31 May 1997, Sat The Guardian (London, Greater London, England) Newspapers.com
David Bennett in The Independent was perhaps a lone unequivocal voice, who saw it as essential viewing but dangerously autobiographical:
Closer Bennett Independent 31 May 1997, Sat The Independent (London, Greater London, England) Newspapers.com
Yet Robert Butler the next day in the same paper was very excited about the play/production:
Closer Butler Indy 01 Jun 1997, Sun The Independent (London, Greater London, England) Newspapers.com
Janie and I both just so remember that “wow” feeling and still remember this as one of the very best plays/productions we have ever seen.