A SLICK, SHARP SATIRE WITH A LICENCE TO THRILL

By Tanya Howard | Founder, The Live Review London · @glamglitzlondon ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

This was my first time visiting the Marylebone Theatre, and what a way to be introduced. I always love getting the chance to explore a new venue, and this one didn’t disappoint. It’s small and intimate in the best way. Whatever seat you’re in, it feels like you’ve got a great view of the action. And for a theatre of its size, the set design for A Role To Die For was smart, stylish, and absolutely delivered.

Set mostly in the high-powered office of Deborah, a formidable Hollywood producer, the décor was full-on Bond homage. Oversized framed portraits of the previous five Bonds, hidden cubbyholes… yes, martinis included. And it smoothly transitions to a screening room straight out of a spy movie. It had all the sleekness you’d expect from a 007 setting, while still feeling grounded enough to host the chaos about to unfold.

BOND, BUT MAKE IT MODERN

If you’re a fan of slick satire with teeth, this play is one to put on your radar. Written by Jordan Waller and directed by Derek Bond, A Role To Die For blends high-stakes industry drama with razor-sharp commentary on media, identity, and legacy. It’s got glamour, scandal, and a countdown to disaster… literally. With just 22 hours until a global casting announcement, the dream choice for the next Bond is suddenly cancelled by a scandal. This leaves Deborah and her team scrambling to find a replacement.

Tanya Franks is electric as Deborah, bringing power, panic, and perfectly-timed put-downs. Philip Bretherton’s Malcolm is both ridiculous and recognisable; equal parts old-school producer and spineless traditionalist. Harry Goodson-Bevan is great as Quinn, Deborah’s son and intern, torn between morality and opportunity. And Obioma Ugoala? Smooth, soulful, and downright dreamy as bartender-turned-Bond contender Theo. If it were up to me, he’d already have the tux fitted.

PACY, PUNCHY, AND UNAPOLOGETICALLY CHEEKY

The dialogue is punchy and the pacing snappy. Especially in Act Two where things start to spiral like the last fifteen minutes of a Bond film. Yes, there are moments that lean into caricature, but that’s kind of the point. This is bold, smart, sometimes chaotic satire that knows what it’s doing. I’m not usually one for a more serious play, my heart belongs to musicals and comedies. But this one packed a punch and left me genuinely impressed. Warning: not for the faint-hearted, the C-word makes an appearance.

A Role To Die For is witty, wild, and unexpectedly moving. A playful jab at the powers that be, and a joyful shake-up of the Bond formula. Whether you’re there for the laughs, the legacy, or just the martinis, you’ll leave stirred and entertained.

WEBSITE

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Photo Credit: Deus Ex Machina Productions