Full Breakdown
Power and Seduction in the National Theatre's _Les Liaisons Dangereuses_
4/2/2026, 7:55:39 AM
Overview of the Production
The National Theatre's revival of _Les Liaisons Dangereuses_, directed by Marianne Elliott, marks the first staging of Christopher Hampton's adaptation of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos' epistolary novel at this venue. The production runs at the Lyttelton Theatre until June 6, 2026, and will be broadcast in cinemas worldwide starting June 25, 2026. The cast features notable actors including Lesley Manville as the Marquise de Merteuil, Aidan Turner as Vicomte de Valmont, and Monica Barbaro as Madame de Tourvel.
Core Narrative: Seduction as Warfare
Set in the salons of 18th-century France, _Les Liaisons Dangereuses_ explores themes of power and manipulation through the lens of seduction. The Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont engage in a calculated game of sexual conquest, with Valmont tasked by the Marquise to seduce the innocent Cécile de Volanges and the virtuous Madame de Tourvel. However, the plot thickens as Valmont unexpectedly falls in love with Madame de Tourvel, leading to tragic consequences.
Key Figures in the Production
- Lesley Manville as Marquise de Merteuil: A master manipulator, Manville's portrayal emphasizes the character's complexity and depth, showcasing her as both a predator and a victim of her own schemes.
- Aidan Turner as Vicomte de Valmont: Turner's interpretation presents Valmont as charming yet coercive, navigating the fine line between seduction and manipulation.
- Monica Barbaro as Madame de Tourvel: Barbaro's performance evolves from a picture of purity to a woman grappling with her desires, marking her London stage debut.
Artistic Elements and Themes
The production employs innovative choreography to depict seduction as a "contact sport," with dancers enhancing the narrative through movement. Set designer Rosanna Vize incorporates a modern aesthetic reminiscent of _Bridgerton_, blending period and contemporary elements. The costumes, designed by Natalie Roar, reflect the opulence of the era while foreshadowing the underlying themes of decadence and moral decay.
Criticism & Opposition
While the production has been praised for its bold staging and performances, some critics note that the initial act lacks the passionate intensity expected from such a charged narrative. The choreography, though visually appealing, is described as "pretty rather than passionate," suggesting a missed opportunity to fully capture the erotic tension inherent in the story.
Official Statements & Responses
Christopher Hampton, the playwright, acknowledges the contemporary resonance of the themes, stating, "You can’t help thinking about all that when you see the play," referring to modern issues of power dynamics and abuse. Manville, reflecting on her role, emphasizes the added depth of an older Marquise, stating, "It adds to her pain... she thinks she is losing her sexual currency too."
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s beyond my control” — Aidan Turner, reflecting Valmont's tragic realization.
- “Humour is closely related to sex, or it is for me anyway. I would never be attracted to a man who doesn’t make me laugh.” — Lesley Manville on the interplay of humor and seduction.
The revival of _Les Liaisons Dangereuses_ at the National Theatre not only revisits a classic tale of manipulation and desire but also invites audiences to reflect on the enduring complexities of power dynamics in relationships.
