“SARAH Quand Même”: A Theatrical Tribute to Sarah Bernhardt Premieres in London
The Drayton Arms Theatre is set to host the UK premiere of “SARAH Quand Même”, a new play marking the centenary year of Sarah Bernhardt’s death. Written and performed by Susie Lindeman, the play celebrates the life and legacy of the legendary actress, often referred to as ‘La Divine’ by Oscar Wilde.
“SARAH Quand Même” first opened at the Théâtre de Nèsle, Paris, on March 28, 2023, exactly a hundred years after the death of Sarah Bernhardt, which saw a million Parisians taking to the streets in mourning. The UK premiere, happening in London, a city crucial to Bernhardt’s rise to superstardom and where her life underwent significant change, is the only event in London honouring her in this centenary year.
The play is scheduled to run at the Drayton Arms Theatre from February 20th to March 2nd, with evening performances from Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30 pm and matinees on February 24th and March 2nd at 3 pm.
“SARAH Quand Même” delves into the multifaceted life of Sarah Bernhardt, from her initial forays into acting to her pioneering role in early cinema and her resilience after losing her leg. The play is an intimate exploration of Bernhardt’s life from her perspective, revealing stories from her childhood passion, her first tour to London, and her encounters with figures like Oscar Wilde and Henry Irving.
Caught between myth and reality, the play portrays Bernhardt at a rehearsal interrupted by her granddaughter Lysiane, leading to dramatic revelations and a confrontation with her own legend. This narrative approach offers a unique glimpse into the inner world of a woman who lived by her vow “Quand Même!” – ‘Despite all!’
Susie Lindeman, who both wrote and performs the play, is an acclaimed actress known for her roles on stage and screen in French and English. She has been featured in West End productions and the Sydney Opera House, and her screen roles include the BAFTA and Oscar-winning film “Howard’s End.” The play is directed by Wayne Harrison, former Artistic Director of the Sydney Theatre Company, with production design by Justin Nardella and lighting design by Martin Kinnane.
The show has received praise for its portrayal of Bernhardt’s life, with Sydney Arts Guide noting its “antiquarian brilliance” and “universal truth.”
Tickets for “SARAH Quand Même” are available for £25 (full price) and £18 (concessions), with an 80-minute runtime without an interval. The play is performed primarily in English, interspersed with some French.
The Drayton Arms Theatre, located above The Drayton Arms Pub in West London, is easily accessible from Gloucester Road or South Kensington stations. For more information on the show and to purchase tickets, visit the Drayton Arms Theatre’s website.