Category Archives: News

A nod from Orson Welles was good enough

By Ray Bennett LONDON – I never spoke to Orson Welles – who was born 100 years ago today and will be the subject of a two-month season at the BFI Southbank – but he did respond with a nod … Continue reading

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Canadian actress Alberta Watson dies

By Ray Bennett LONDON – Canadian actress Alberta Watson has died aged 60. I knew her long ago as Susan. To meet Susan Watson in 1977 was to fall in love. She was 21, beautiful and a force of nature. … Continue reading

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The Old Vic names full cast for ‘High Society’

By Ray Bennett The Old Vic has announced full casting for its production of Cole Porter’s “High Society” based on the film musical version of  “The Philadelphia Story”, which will open on May 14 following previews that begin on April … Continue reading

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London Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards highlight fringe

By Ray Bennett Fringe and repertoire theatres triumphed at the London Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards today as prizes went to productions at the Almeida, Chichester Festival, the Young Vic, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Royal Court and the Bush Theatre. … Continue reading

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Theatre news: Spacey as Darrow, Suchet as Lady Bracknell

By Ray Bennett Latest casting news in London’s West End includes Kevin Spacey’s return as Clarence Darrow at The Old Vic, Lara Pulver and Peter Davison with Imelda Staunton in the transfer of “Gypsy” and David Suchet as Lady Bracknell. … Continue reading

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‘Boyhood’, ‘Under the Skin’ top London critics’ awards

By Ray Bennett The London Critics’ Circle Film Awards on Sunday shared the plaudits among several films including “Boyhood”, which won three prizes, and “Under the Skin”, which won two.

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Miranda Richardson to receive Critics’ Circle’s top prize

Delighted that the wonderful Miranda Richardson will be honoured at the Critics’ Circle Film Awards on Sunday. Sat next to her at a Fox dinner at the Toronto International Film Festival two or three years ago and she is delightful company … Continue reading

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THEATRE REVIEW: ‘Made in Dagenham: The Musical’

By Ray Bennett David Arnold has seldom appeared happier. You can only imagine what it’s like to walk along the Strand in London and see the splash of colour at the Adelphi Theatre that proclaims your very first West End … Continue reading

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Orchestra rules at World Soundtrack Awards

By Ray Bennett GHENT, BELGIUM – One of the great things about the World Soundtrack Awards is the Ghent Film Festival’s commitment to orchestral music and this year was no different as the annual event showcased the work of Cliff … Continue reading

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Tearful Francis Lai acclaimed at World Soundtrack Awards

By Ray Bennett GHENT, Belgium – Oscar-winning French composer Francis Lai, 82, was visibly moved by a prolonged standing ovation after he accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award on Saturday night at the 14th World Soundtrack Awards. Fellow French composer Bruno … Continue reading

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