Review: Hysteria at Hampstead Theatre ****
By Rebecca Wallersteiner
Sir Antony Sher stars as a compelling Sigmund Freud in Terry Johnson’s delicious revival of Hysteria, which is currently running at the Hampstead Theatre.
It’s 1938 and Freud is his 80s, having escaped from Nazi Vienna to Hampstead. Sher makes a convincing Freud, combining intellect with hesitancy and capturing that blend of single-mindedness, ruthlessness and detachment common to genius.
Lydia Wilson gives a strong performance as Jessica, a troubled young woman who stalks the dying psychoanalyst, while Adrian Schiller is hilarious as the zany artist Salvador Dali.
David Horovitch provides a sober counterbalance as Freud’s Jewish doctor, Yahuda.
Schiller is an irrepressible whirlwind of lunacy, transforming Freud’s peaceful studio into a nightmarish Dali painting – with an imploding clock and walls, lobster telephone and phalluses and snails galore.
Though farcical, Johnson’s play also explores deeper issues, like identity, creativity and scientific ethics. Lez Brotherston’s set is spectacular.
My only quibble is that if it’s set in 1938 – why the air raid sirens? – as war was not declared until 1939 – but perhaps I am being too literal!
Hysteria runs at Hampstead Theatre until October 12. Details: 020 7722 9301 or www.hampsteadtheatre.com
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
