Top 5 theatre shows to see this week (November 25-December 1)

The Arrival – Bush Theatre, London

Olivier-winning director Bijan Sheibani – whose past productions include the majestic Barber Shop Chronicles – helms his own play, about two brothers who are reunited, opening on November 26.

Rehearsals for The Arrival. Photo: Marc Brenner

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My Brilliant Friend – National Theatre, London

This two-part adaptation of Eleanor Ferrante’s novels is the first time a production written and directed by women has ever been staged in the Olivier. Niamh Cusack and Catherine McCormack star in Melly Still’s production, opening on November 26.

Rehearsals for My Brilliant Friend. Photos: Marc Brenner

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The Boy in the Dress  – Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

Can the Royal Shakespeare Company score another Matilda-sized hit with this new musical adaptation of David Walliams’ book with music by Robbie Williams? Gregory Doran’s production opens on November 27.

The Last Noël – Merton Arts Space, London

Attic Theatre Company’s production of the new play by Chris Bush (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, The Assassination of Katie Hopkins) opens in Wimbledon Library, on November 28, and plays a number of non-theatre spaces ahead of its run at Oxford’s Old Fire Station, opening December 9.

Playwright Chris Bush: ‘With social media, it’s like we’re learning a new language’

An Edinburgh Christmas Carol – Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh

There are multiple versions of Charles Dickens’ festive fable doing the rounds this year. Tony Cownie’s adaptation is inspired by the fact that Dickens was purportedly in Edinburgh when inspiration struck. It opens on November 29.

Rehearsal photos: Aly Wight

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