GIANT [Harold Pinter Theatre]

Review by James

⭐⭐⭐⭐

GIANT’s conversation-driving run in London continues apace at its new Harold Pinter Theatre digs.

Written before the 7th October terror attacks and the devastating war in Gaza which has fuelled historic levels of antisemitism, GIANT is a complex no-nonsense look at one of society’s greatest challenges.

Directed by the famed Nicholas Hytner and written by newcomer Mark Rosenblatt, GIANT’s unvarnished look at anti-Jewish racism already has an Olivier award for Best New Play under its belt following its earlier Royal Court run.

The play tackles the 1983 furore over a book review that features a problematic conflation of Israel with Jewishness which Roald Dahl sees no problem in. In an imagined but eminently believable series of events, Dahl’s British and American publishers visit him at home to implore him to make a public apology before his reputation takes any further damage. Dahl’s embittered refusal to apologise and acknowledge his very real antisemitic beliefs not only shines a timely light on the author’s complex legacy but on the imperviousness of many today to do the same.

GIANT is undoubtedly a tough watch. The volleys of antisemitism from the beloved author are deeply uncomfortable, but it is the laughter that greets some of the racist stereotypes during the performance that suggests that not everyone grasped the play’s message.

The intense arguments throughout are driven by strong cast-wide performances, but it is besieged American publisher Jessica Stone’s (Aya Cash) impassioned performance at the close of the first act which steals the show and leaves you breathless. A stunning London debut.

John Lithgow is perfectly cast as the towering Roald Dahl and it is a pleasure to watch a talented actor at the height of their powers – vulnerable and immature at times and then abusive in a flash. The actors’ universal popularity also acts as a perfect vehicle to challenge an audience into confronting the hateful racist views of an equally beloved public figure. Should the hateful views of an artist or public figure ever be disassociated from their work?

GIANT is brave and essential theatre.