Hello beautiful souls, welcome back to the blog! Today I’m sharing my experience with one of the more emotionally intense plays I’ve seen last year: The Deep Blue Sea at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London. Although this production ended on 21st June 2025, I couldn’t let it pass without a proper reflection. So if you're searching for a genuine The Deep Blue Sea Theatre Royal Haymarket review, you're in the right place.
What is The Deep Blue Sea about
The Deep Blue Sea, written by Terence Rattigan, is a 1950s drama exploring obsession, heartbreak, and the destructive power of love. In this revival, Tamsin Greig stars as Hester Collyer, a judge’s wife entangled in a passionate but hopeless affair with ex-RAF pilot Freddie Page, played by Finbar Lynch.
Their relationship spirals into emotional chaos, and the story delivers a powerful portrayal of what happens when love becomes all-consuming and one-sided.
Tamsin Greig’s performance at Theatre Royal Haymarket
Tamsin Greig was the soul of this production. Her portrayal of Hester was raw, compelling, and deeply human. You could feel her emotional exhaustion with every line. This was not a light performance, but it was certainly unforgettable.
Finbar Lynch brought intensity and restraint to Freddie Page, balancing Hester’s emotional storm with detachment, perhaps too much of it. Their chemistry was believable, but deliberately uncomfortable, capturing the very essence of Rattigan’s message. If you're a fan of British stage drama, Olivier-winning actors, or strong female leads, this production checked every box.
Direction, cast, and production quality
Directed by Lindsay Posner, this production was beautifully restrained. The pacing was deliberate, allowing the emotional weight to build. The set design reflected post-war London with subdued elegance. Supporting cast members like Selina Cadell, Nicholas Farrell, and Hadley Fraser added nuance and credibility to every scene.
However, a note of honesty, I did feel the play dragged in the second half. The dialogues, while well-written, became emotionally draining. The length and tone were heavy, especially during a heatwave. (Yes, that’s a real theatre-going tip, old venues like Theatre Royal Haymarket can get hot without modern air conditioning!)
Personal theatre experience during a London heatwave
Let’s talk comfort. Theatre Royal Haymarket is one of London’s most historic and charming theatres, but it lacks modern ventilation. During a heatwave, it’s no joke. Bring a bottle of water and a fan in summer.
Despite that, the overall experience was memorable. From the first scene to the final act, The Deep Blue Sea stays true to its name, emotional, dark, and deep.
Final thoughts on The Deep Blue Sea, Theatre Royal Haymarket review
This 2025 production of The Deep Blue Sea was a heavy, emotional journey that stayed with me long after I left the theatre. While not for everyone, especially those expecting something light or romantic, it was a masterclass in acting and direction.
With love
