Self Esteem Captivates in Teeth 'n' Smiles Revival, Yet Play Struggles to Dazzle
Fifty years after its debut, David Hare's 1975 play Teeth 'n' Smiles returns to the stage at London's Duke of York's Theatre, with Rebecca Lucy Taylor, known as Self Esteem, taking on the lead role of Maggie. This revival brings a fresh perspective to a story that originally captured the melancholy of a generation reflecting on the faded counter-cultural dreams of 1969.
A Rock Band on the Brink
The play centers on a rock band nearing the end of its glory days, performing at a Cambridge University ball—a far cry from their past venues. Maggie, the volatile frontwoman, and songwriter Arthur are winding down their relationship, mirroring the broader decline of an era in European music. The hippy ideals of love and revolution have shattered, leaving the characters to grapple with their fading relevance.
Rebecca Lucy Taylor's casting is inspired, injecting new life and attracting contemporary audiences. Unlike Helen Mirren, who based her original portrayal on Janis Joplin, Taylor brings authenticity to the singing scenes, holding the audience captive with her powerful vocal delivery. Her performance as Maggie, who battles drunkenness to deliver stunning sets, is a highlight of the production.
Musical Brilliance Overshadows Script
The musical elements, featuring songs by Nick and Tony Bicât alongside new contributions from Taylor, are energetic and infectious. Tracks like Close to Me and Last Orders resonate with throbbing 60s rhythms and elegiac tones. Alex Mullins' costumes dazzle with a Mick Jagger-inspired aesthetic, while Chloe Lamford's set and Ben and Max Ringham's sound design create an immersive gig-like atmosphere. Under Daniel Raggett's direction, the band performs with raw energy, making each song a standout moment.
However, the dialogue fails to match the musical prowess. The script lacks emotional depth and intellectual focus, meandering through themes of class, youth, and music's purpose without substantial follow-through. Maggie's nihilistic rage, while hinting at the punk movement, feels inarticulate, and her relationship with Arthur lacks detail, rendering it unconvincing. Supporting characters, such as the band's manager Saraffian and medical student Anson, often fall into clichéd portrayals.
Comparisons and Conclusions
While comparisons to other plays like Stereophonic might be unfair, that production offered richer relationship dynamics. Ultimately, Teeth 'n' Smiles excels in its musical performances but struggles to deliver a compelling dramatic narrative. Audiences are advised to come for the astounding music and Taylor's magnetic presence, even if the play itself doesn't fully dazzle. The show runs at the Duke of York's Theatre until 6 June.
