NATASHA, PIERRE & THE GREAT COMET OF 1812 - Donmar Warehouse (28/12/24)

There aren’t nearly enough superlatives available to describe how much of a distinct privilege it was to behold Dave Malloy’s contemporary masterpiece. Based on a small section of Leo Tolstoy’s epic novel “War and Peace”, Great Comet follows eponymous Natasha Rostova’s various personal and romantic exploits, most notably with Anatole Karagin, and Pierre Bazukhov’s search for purpose in his loveless, lacklustre life.

“Natasha is young” is a constant, her inherent naïvety and arguably sheltered upbringing shaping the trajectory of her relatively young life, this is reflected fantastically by director Tim Sheader, who opts for a starkly contrasting vision from that of original visionary Rachel Chavkin. And this was very much the right move, as the manner in which Sheader has reimagined of Molloy's material is wonderfully, strikingly original.

Declan Bennett and the company of Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 (credit: Johan Persson)

The design has a delightful mix of old and new, especially Evie Gurney’s costumes, with some beautiful 19th century inspired dresses, more modern costume designs, and others that take influences from both, particularly those of younger male characters. In spite of this mix, the production has a definitive aesthetic personality, and fabulous artistic integrity, enhanced marvellously by Howard Hudson's lighting.

But the centrepiece is undoubtedly Malloy’s score and lyrics, prominent influence taken directly from the novel, with certain songs directly quoting it. It’s handled beautifully, and never feels conceited or overtly pretentious, as the music and lyrical content always work together harmoniously. It encapsulates Tolstoy’s themes and characterisations, and still manages to make it feel relevant and modern.

Chloe Saracco and Chumisa Dornford-May (credit: Johan Persson)

This cast are a phenomenal group of performers; Chumisa Dornford-May is a perpetually enchanting presence, marvellously portraying Natasha’s naïvety and chutzpah, whilst Declan Bennett captures Pierre’s downtrodden, disillusioned nature with fervency. Another major standout is Maimuna Memon, whose take on Sonya contrasts beautifully with Dornford-May's Natasha, as the cousins and best friends' differences are depicted with terrific zeal.

Jamie Muscato brings a delicious swagger to the role of Anatole, his upper range has real grit and soul about it which, coupled with his aesthetic, gives him distinct rockstar appeal. He’s detestable, yet somehow you can’t seem to hate him; Cat Simmons as Anatole's sister Hélène is deliciously mischievous, and her interactions with both Bennett and Dornford-May display with aplomb her wonderful acting range. And ensemble vocals are utterly sublime, especially in the titular track, that brings to a close another absolute triumph for Donmar Warehouse.

★★★★★

"Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812" plays at Donmar Warehouse until the 8th of February.