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Menier’s Equus Revival Draws Strong Reviews for Intimate, Movement-Led Staging

Balletic horses with close-up performances give the 1973 play new charge.

Overview

  • The revival drew reviews on Tuesday at London’s Menier Chocolate Factory, where it runs through 4 July.
  • Toby Stephens plays psychiatrist Martin Dysart and Noah Valentine is Alan Strang, with critics praising the intensity of both leads.
  • The production drops the play’s traditional horse masks in favor of balletic movement by a young ensemble under movement director James Cousins.
  • Reviewers commend the stripped-back design and physical storytelling while noting that Shaffer’s 1970s psychiatric framing now feels dated.
  • The co-production transfers to Theatre Royal Bath from 14 to 25 July, extending the run beyond the Menier engagement.