THEATRE: THE FIVE BEST PLAYS IN LONDON ... AND BEYOND

1

Macbeth (Swan Theatre, Stratford)

Greg Doran's is the best production of this notoriously difficult tragedy since the classic Trevor Nunn version. Harriett Walter is marvellously complex and achingly sad as Lady M. To 8 March 2000

2

Singin' in the Rain (West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds)

Glorious MGM musical takes to the stage in Jude Kelly's production which is choreographed by rising star Stephen Mear. To 5 Feb 2000

3

Hedda Gabler (Theatre Royal, Brighton)

Annie Castledine's production has an exceptionally strong cast with the alluring Francesca Annis in the lead and Peter Bowles as Judge Brack. From 6 to Dec

4

The Importance of Being Earnest (Theatre Royal, Brighton )

The daffy, deeply great Dora Bryan as Lady Bracknell? Sounds like a hoot and a collector's item. Ends tonight

5

Macbeth (WestYorkshire Playhouse, Leeds )

Starring the excellent Patrick O'Kane, Jude Kelly's exhaustively rethought interpretation features some bizarre water sculpture. This comes in particularly handy for the hand-washing scene. Ends tonight