Walking into the auditorium, I was greeted by a lively 80s soundtrack, a striking contrast to the concrete grey block onstage, representing the exterior wall of Cutlers’ Grammar School. It’s A-Level results day, and eight ambitious boys have achieved the best results the school has ever seen. But their sights are set even higher: Oxford or Cambridge. To get in, they need extra tutoring, but whose methods will be more effective? Hector, the eccentric English teacher who believes in “culture for culture’s sake,” or Irwin, the young, pragmatic supply teacher who advises them to be anything but themselves?
The 20th anniversary of The History Boys by Alan Bennett has been reinvigorated by director Sean Linnen. Questioning the purpose of education, Linnen injects new energy into the play, helped by the vibrant sound design by Russell Dfield. A particular highlight for me was the transitions, featuring musical interludes and choreography that perfectly captured the charismatic spirit of the teenage boys.
Grace Smart’s set design certainly lived up to her name. The set’s ability to revolve between the classroom and exterior walls was simple yet highly effective.
The ensemble cast of boys was exceptionally well chosen. Lewis Cornay brilliantly portrayed Posner’s lovestruck eagerness, and his singing was captivating, with Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered standing out as show highlight.
Archie Christoph-Allen was excellent as Dakin, exuding self-confidence and manipulative charm, while Yazdan Qafouri shone as Scripps, not only guiding us through the play but also showcasing his talents as a brilliant piano player.
One of the most delightful moments was the scene performed entirely in French. Despite not understanding a word, the audience (myself included) found it hilarious—a testament to the cast's comedic timing and energy.
Simon Rouse was perfect as Hector, a complex flawed character who tries to teach the boys not just for exams but for life itself. Rouse captured Hector’s passion as well as his underlying melancholia, particularly in the way we see him abuse his power. Bill Milner’s portrayal of Irwin had shades of a young politician, as he urged the boys to compromise their authenticity in pursuit of success.
Overall, this was a superb production. As I left the auditorium, I overheard the audience around me deep in thought, mulling over questions about education, history, love.
A solid A* for effort—highly recommended.
The History Boys is on at the Belgrade Theatre until 12th October. Tickets and more information can be found here.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | photography by Marc Brenner
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