Video review: The Estate, National Theatre

Video transcript: The Estate at the National Theatre sees Adeel Akhtar play a politician who’s bidding to become the leader of the opposition.

But it’s not just a political drama. It’s a family drama because there’s stuff going on in his background that threatens to derail his attempt.

And it’s very meaty play, because the family drama throws up misogyny, differences in culture, immigration – there’s a lot going on.

But what I really liked about this play, which is really well written, is that the characters are really well drawn: There’s no hero or villain.

You can see both sides of the argument, and it makes for a really interesting, really thought-provoking play.

It’s also funny in places. It sounds really heavy, but there is humour in it too. I really liked it. I am giving it four stars.

The Estate, National Theatre (Dorfman)

Written by Shaan Sahota

Directed by Daniel Raggett

Starring Adeel Akhtar, Shelley Conn, Dinita Gohil and Thusitha Jayasundera

Running time 2 hours and 25 minutes, including an interval (preview performance, so running time may change).

Booking until 23 August, 2025.

Till the Stars Come Down, Theatre Royal Haymarket booking until 27 September ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Mrs Warren’s Profession, Garrick Theatre booking until 16 August ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Fifth Step, Soho Place booking until 26 July ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Video review: The Estate, National Theatre booking until 23 August ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Video review: Intimate Apparel, Donmar Warehouse booking until 9 August ⭐️⭐️⭐️ and a half.