Adrian Lester delivers a compelling performance as Cyrano in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s latest production of "Cyrano de Bergerac," currently running at London’s Noël Coward Theatre through September 5. The production, directed by Simon Evans with co-adaptation by Evans and Debris Stevenson, presents a fresh and dynamic interpretation of Edmond Rostand’s classic play, exploring themes of love, identity, and performance.

Set in 17th-century France, the story follows Cyrano, a poet and skilled swordsman burdened by insecurity about his notably large nose. He secretly admires Roxane, but believes his appearance makes him unworthy of her affection. Instead, Cyrano lends his eloquence to Christian, a handsome but tongue-tied suitor, creating a complicated love triangle where Roxane is captivated by words spoken by Cyrano but associated with Christian’s visage. The production probes the question of whether true love arises from what one hears or what one sees, while simultaneously examining the nature of theatrical performance itself.

Lester’s portrayal underscores the character’s wit, vulnerability, and emotional intensity. Known for his versatility across stage and screen, Lester combines physical agility with vocal precision, bringing to life Cyrano’s charm and self-consciousness. His presence anchors the production, which balances poetic dialogue with vigorous stage combat and moments of humor.

The cast includes Susannah Fielding as Roxane, whose portrayal captures both the character’s spirited personality and emotional depth, particularly in the play’s final act where Roxane confronts the truth of Cyrano’s authorship and wrestles with feelings of betrayal and loss. Levi Brown plays Christian with a sincere and earnest quality, providing a believable foil to Cyrano’s brilliance. Greer Dale-Foulkes offers a lively turn as Roxane’s maid, adding a touch of comic relief and vitality. Scott Handy embodies the duplicitous Comte de Guiche, contributing a darker tension to the production.

Design elements further enhance the storytelling: Grace Smart’s costumes blend period references with contemporary touches to convey character traits and social dynamics, while the set adopts a more restrained approach, allowing the performers to command attention. A live band, recruited by Cyrano’s wagers within the narrative, supplements the production’s atmosphere and underscores its musicality.

While some moments occasionally verge on overemphasis—such as an exuberant introduction to the play’s performative aspects and certain rhetorical flourishes—the overall execution remains focused and effective. Notably absent is excessive sentimentality; Cyrano’s preoccupation with his nose is portrayed not merely as neurotic insecurity but as a complex expression of pride and self-control.

This revitalized staging of "Cyrano de Bergerac" reaffirms the enduring power of Rostand’s work, brought vividly to life by a talented ensemble and a director’s vision that blends passion, humor, and poignancy.