Cyrano de Bergerac
04 July 2026
Noel Coward Theatre
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
RSC’s production of Cyrano de Bergerac is currently running at the Noel Coward Theatre until 5 September. This contemporary production is a gorgeous revival of the classic story.
Cyrano is a master of the word and the sword, utilising both equally to wound his enemies. But when his great love Roxanne shows interest in a young soldier, he decides to help the young man woo her through beautiful love letters, believing himself unlovable due to his prominent nose, relegating himself to the background in the name of romance.
This production is a very fresh take on the story, keeping very close to the original while infusing it with dynamic updates that dazzle with clever wit and imaginative imagery. The set creates a dynamic framing for the story, playing with theatrical and classical elements really well, effortlessly transforming into a series of different settings. The most stand-out element of this production is how heavily it leans into the humour and poetry of Cyrano, weaving a tapestry of verse to the delight of the audience.
Adrian Lester is tremendous in the role of Cyrano, completely inhabiting the panache and flair of the character, presenting it with so much passion and charisma, it completely enraptures viewers from the first syllable to the last. A career-defining performance that perfectly balances blissful hubris and devastating adversity. Bringing delight and grief in equal measure, it’s my top recommendation of the summer!
