pick of the week

Cinderella and the Coat of Skins

In the midst of three commissions for the National Theatre, translator and verse dramatist Peter Oswald - with director James Menzies-Kitchin - has found time to create a new fairy-tale based on the darker elements of Grimm. Opens tonight. BAC, London SW11 (0171-223 2223)

Hysteria

Terry Johnson's script is daringly funny, the acting is outstanding, especially Aisling O'Sullivan and Henry Goodman as a bemused Sigmund Freud, and Phyllida Lloyd's production is a marvel. A Royal Court Classic. Duke of York's, London WC2 (0171-836 5122)

Road to Nirvana

A corrosive slice of Hollywood life bursting with satirical intent and inspired silliness. Michael Taylor's designs are suitably tasteless and Justin Greene's production keeps a tight rein on the proceedings and wins strong performances. Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh (0131-228 1404)