PAL ARON GOES BEHIND THE BEAUTIFUL FOREVERS AT THE NATIONAL
Last week, Behind the Beautiful Forevers, David Hare’s ambitious adaptation of Katherine Boo’s National Book Award winner, opened at the National Theatre. Rufus Norris’ first production since being announced as the new Director of the National is set in Annawadi, a makeshift slum at the edge of Mumbai airport and in the shadow of luxury five-star hotels, where many of the residents make ends meet by picking through the wealthy’s rubbish. The production has been hailed for its impressive design, rich details and strong ensemble, which includes the brilliant Pal Aron in a multitude of parts.
“In a vast cast there are also some outstanding performances… Pal Aron as an inspirational teacher [is] first-rate.” Michael Billington, THE GUARDIAN, ****
“Rufus Norris’s production has a humane, dignified sweep… Magnificent.” Paul Taylor, THE INDEPENDENT, ****
Behind the Beautiful Forevers plays in the National’s Olivier Theatre until the 13th April 2014.