Teeth ‘N’ Smiles
See Self Esteem on stage with Teeth ‘N’ Smiles play tickets
Musical rebellion collapses into booze-fuelled regret as David Hare’s trailblazing Teeth ‘N’ Smiles play returns to London on its 50th anniversary, starring Rebecca Lucy Taylor (AKA Self Esteem). Opening at the Duke of York’s Theatre for a limited 12-week run, this explosive revival promises rock-and-roll ferocity, biting commentary, and a voice that refuses to stay quiet.
Musician Maggie Frisby once led the countercultural charge. But now, in the dying days of the ‘60s, she’s the lead singer of a struggling rock band, preparing for a gig at a Cambridge University May Ball. As the band drunkenly reels with disillusionment, conflicts and nostalgia, Maggie fights to keep the show, and her dreams, alive.
Written by David Hare, with original music by Nick Bicât and lyrics by Tony Bicât, the electric Teeth ‘N’ Smiles play premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in 1975. This revival is directed by Daniel Raggett. It honours the spirit of the original while injecting a fresh pulse of urgency for today’s audiences.
David Hare is an acclaimed British playwright and screenwriter, best known for Plenty (1978), Racing Demon (1990), Skylight (1995), and Stuff Happens (2004), as well as screenplays for The Hours (2002) and The Reader (2008). A leading voice in contemporary political theatre, he has two Academy Award nominations, multiple BAFTA awards, and three Olivier Awards.
Rebecca Lucy Taylor steps into the role of Maggie Frisby, following an acclaimed run as Sally Bowles in Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. She is best known for her acclaimed work as a musician under the name Self Esteem, and her albums – including Prioritise Pleasure – have earned awards and wide recognition.
David Hare’s Teeth ’N’ Smiles play is a visceral reminder that some fires never die and that youthful rebellion can be more relevant than ever. Book now to be part of this unmissable revival, before the lights go down.
Child friendly?
The Teeth ‘N’ Smiles play age rating is 14+.