Rapture Blister Burn/ Good People, Hampstead Theatre

A new brand of feminism is at the centre of the 2014 spring season at the Hampstead Theatre, as two modern Broadway hits open at the North London venue. 

First up is 2013 Pulitzer Prize finalist Rapture, Blister, Burn : an insightful and witty look at home, hearth and ambition as two women who make very different life choices look back on their decisions decades later. The familiar face in the play is provided by Emilia Fox in the role of career girl Catherine (or ‘the hot doomsday chick’).  Best known to most for her television work in Silent Witness and Merlin , she makes her Hampstead theatre debut, following in the footsteps of baby brother Freddie’s hugely successful turn in The Judas Kiss opposite Rupert Everett.  

Good People sees Imelda Staunton take on the role of a desperate single mother on the wrong side of South Boston’s tracks; after losing yet another job she finds herself back in touch with an old boyfriend with surprising results. Best known for her comedy turns in costume dramas (and of course  Harry Potter ), we can’t wait to see Staunton take on something grittier; if Sweeney Todd (her previous collaboration with Good People director Jonathan Kent) is anything to go by she will take the bull by the horns and be spectacular. 

The Hampstead has a strong record of creating hits, and both Rapture, Blister, Burn and Good People promise to be no exception.  The star power and genuine literary clout of both plays would indicate that West End transfers are all but inevitable. 

Tickets: £15 - £32

Address & Map: Eton Ave, Swiss Cottage, London NW3 3EU

Nearest Tube: Swiss Cottage