David Benedict: My hair-raising highs and lyrical lows of theatre in 2023

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David Benedict

David Benedict

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David Benedict

David Benedict

David Benedict has been a daily columnist and theatre editor on the Independent and arts editor of the Observer. He is chief London critic of Variety, a regular guest on the BBC, and is currently writing the authorised biography of Stephen Sondheim. Read David's columns for The Stage every Wednesday.

More from this author

My favourite show: Paule Constable

What's the difference between a musical and an opera? Festen crosses that divide

Titanique is pure theatrical silliness – let’s have more of its ilk in the West End

Opinion

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Most Read

What’s behind the trend of mini-musicals on Broadway?

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Could a fast-growing global fringe circuit dim Edinburgh's spotlight?

Big words, small promises: can Lisa Nandy live up to Jennie Lee?

If we want change, we should start by creating spaces where everyone can be heard

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Michael Ahomka-Lindsay: 'If you feel lost, you’re probably in the right place – on your own path'

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David Shields: ‘Punch is the most challenging and most important thing I’ve ever done’

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Advice

Michael Carklin: 'The ability to listen is the foundation of collaboration'

Michael Carklin: 'The ability to listen is the foundation of collaboration'

Fabia-Maria Cerra: 'I got my first paid acting job after 12 years of auditioning'

Fabia-Maria Cerra: 'I got my first paid acting job after 12 years of auditioning'

Emily LeQuesne: 'Without the arts, what are we for?'

Emily LeQuesne: 'Without the arts, what are we for?'

Michael Ahomka-Lindsay: 'If you feel lost, you’re probably in the right place – on your own path'

Michael Ahomka-Lindsay: 'If you feel lost, you’re probably in the right place – on your own path'

Recommended for you

The Score review

“Irresistible and bittersweet”

The Score review

Reviews by Laurie YuleTheatre Royal Haymarket, London

David Shields: ‘Punch is the most challenging and most important thing I’ve ever done’

David Shields: ‘Punch is the most challenging and most important thing I’ve ever done’

Features by Fergus Morgan

What’s behind the trend of mini-musicals on Broadway?

What’s behind the trend of mini-musicals on Broadway?

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Ten-year growth plan for London emphasises ‘cultural superpower’ of theatre

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