Still Life - Grand Saloon Bar Drury Lane
Many a great afternoon was spent at The Mill at Sonning in recent months, and not least because of the atmosphere. So, when I heard about a similar experience with a Sonning show right here in London's West End, I knew I had to jump at the opportunity. Instead of the usual two-course meal, I was treated to a lovely afternoon tea - complete with its traditional scones and mini sandwiches - all whilst watching Noel Coward's Still Life.
For one week only, you too can experience the play that inspired the classic story "Brief Encounter" in the Grand Saloon Bar at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
Upon booking, you will be assigned a platform, carriage, and seat number, immersing you into the production instantly. The tea is served an hour before the start of the show, which then happens all around you. It is a clever concept, one I took part in most gladly. Luckily, the immersion did make the show slightly more enjoyable.
Though I did somewhat enjoy the show, I found it to be too short - or too brief, if you will. As Laura (Rachel Pickup) and Alec (Alasdair Craig), two married people, meet randomly in the café of a busy train station, a liaison between the two grows. However, within the 60 min run-time, this is a story where the development feels sadly inorganic. As soon as I started to grow attached to all of its characters, the show drew to a close. Now, admittedly, leaving an audience wanting more is oft a good thing in theatre. But this erred on the verge of 'not enough.' On top of the liaison, there were a few other stories which all happened simultaneously - leaving too many plots to tie up in very little time. The cast, however, is very good, with the majority handling more than one part.
The show also includes some musical interludes, which held the piece together quite nicely. That said, with a piece this short, they could have been made more brief (pun intended) - leaving room for focus on the many plot lines.
Overall, I had a great time this afternoon. The food was delicious and the show, whilst leaving me slightly wanting, was quite entertaining.
Production Value (Show ONLY): 55%
Value For Money (Dining + Show): 85%
Personal Enjoyment (Dining + Show): 70%
Overall Score: 70% - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4*)
(AD | Ticket gifted in exchange for an honest review)
Show Information
Venue: Grand Saloon Bar at The Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London
Playing until: 12th September 2026
Show Run Time: Approximately 60 min (+ 60 min for tea)
Tickets for this show can be found at this link.
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