Revisiting Terence Rattigan's _Man and Boy_ at the National Theatre

The National Theatre's revival of Terence Rattigan's 1963 play _Man and Boy_ explores the tumultuous relationship between Gregor Antonescu, a corrupt Romanian financier, and his estranged son, Basil Anthony. Set in 1934 Greenwich Village, the narrative unfolds as Gregor, portrayed by Ben Daniels, re-enters Basil's life, seeking to exploit him in a desperate attempt to salvage his crumbling empire amidst financial scandal.

Radio Times

Rattigan, once a prominent figure in British theatre, faced a decline in reputation by the time _Man and Boy_ was written. The play initially received poor reviews, running for only 54 performances on Broadway. However, its themes of exploitation and familial conflict resonate strongly today, particularly in light of contemporary scandals reminiscent of the financial corruption depicted in the narrative.

Man and Boy at the National Theatre | Theatre review

• Gregor Antonescu (Ben Daniels): A megalomaniacal financier whose unethical dealings lead to his downfall.

Man and Boy, National Theatre review - Ben Daniels dazzles as a crook who feels frighteningly familiar

• Basil Anthony (Laurie Kynaston): Gregor's estranged son, a struggling songwriter who grapples with his father's manipulations.

The Telegraph - UK

• Countess Antonescu (Isabella Laughland): Gregor's wife, portrayed as a caricature of a scorned aristocrat.

The Guardian

• Mark Herries (Malcolm Sinclair): A businessman whom Gregor attempts to manipulate through Basil.

Man and Boy, National Theatre review - Ben Daniels dazzles as a crook who feels frighteningly familiar

The play's exploration of father-son dynamics serves as a microcosm for broader societal issues, particularly the corrupting influence of capitalism. Critics note the relevance of Rattigan's work in today's context, drawing parallels to high-profile financial scandals. The narrative raises questions about morality, conscience, and the lengths to which individuals will go to maintain power.

Radio Times

Director Anthony Lau's interpretation has been met with mixed reviews. While some praise the production for its dynamic staging and strong performances, others criticize it for overshadowing the emotional depth of the original text with excessive theatricality. Critics highlight that the play's core message about the corruptions of capitalism becomes diluted amidst the stylized presentation.

The Guardian

Some reviewers argue that the production's experimental approach detracts from the narrative's emotional impact. The heavy reliance on visual spectacle and stylized performances has been described as a distraction from the intimate and poignant themes at the heart of Rattigan's work. Critics express concern that the play's potential for tragedy is undercut by its over-the-top presentation.

Man and Boy at the National Theatre | Theatre review

• “To be absolutely powerful, a man must corrupt himself absolutely.” — Terence Rattigan

Man and Boy at the National Theatre | Theatre review

• “Daniels moves catlike around the stage, wheedling his way out of any potential critique of his behaviour (whether that be buying aristocratic titles or cosying up to Stalin).” — Broadway World

Review: MAN AND BOY, National Theatre

• “When some of the unnecessary artifice is stripped away, however, this is an astutely written drama the National were right to revisit.” — Arts Desk

Review: MAN AND BOY, National Theatre

_Men and Boy_ is currently running at the Dorfman Theatre, National Theatre, until March 14, 2026. The production aims to reintroduce Rattigan's work to contemporary audiences, encouraging a reevaluation of its themes and relevance in today's socio-economic landscape.

Radio Times