THEATRE / On Theatre

Ever since a five-week stay at the National Theatre Studio, Lithuanian director Dalia Ibelhauptaite has been working here as much as possible. With rapturously received productions at the Gate and the Tricycle behind her, she is now directing Goldoni's The Impresario from Smyrna at the Old Red Lion.

Goldoni, for most people, suggests fast verbal comedy. Even the title has comedy potential. Set in the world of showbiz, the plot concerns a bunch of squabbling opera singers. Is that all there is at stake? 'The plot is full of intrigue, jealousy and sexual attraction, but that's just on the surface. In most productions, people leave the theatre and can't remember why they were laughing. I worked differently. I wanted to reveal the level beneath. There are hugely complex relationships and the characters go along real emotional journeys.'

In a theatre the size of the Old Red Lion, insincerity is ruthlessly exposed. The actors have to be truthful, which is central to Ibelhauptaite's vision. 'People think I have a method, but I'm too young to make theories out of my work. I do a lot of preparation and in rehearsal I have a strong vision, but I aim to draw performances out of actors rather than impose my ideas. I want to achieve my vision through them.' With that kind of approach, actors will be queuing up to work with her.

'The Impresario from Smyrna is at the Old Red Lion, St John's St, EC1 (071-837 7816) Tue-Sun, 7.30pm, to 18 Jun

(Photograph omitted)