George Bernard Shaw died 50 years ago, an anniversary worthy of celebration, and the Gate Theatre has chosen Arms and the Man to remember him by. It is an excellent choice, the first of the author's Plays Pleasant and always among his most popular. The premiere in London in 1984 was directed by Shaw and became his first commercial success. The theme of reality versus romanticism is a typically Shavian one, developed through the character of Bluntschli, the mercenary who prefers to stay alive rather than to die gloriously. He is contrasted with Sergius (Mark O'Halloran, above), the chocolate soldier whose flag-waving tactics in battle are almost suicidal. All great fun, and still a guide to practical living, it opens on Tuesday next.
Meanwhile, Mrs Warren's Profession continues at the Peacock until July 8th.