"A lively book... a convincing argument for the importance of a long life in theater criticism....In capturing the thrill of seeing a theatrical event, Mr. Nightingale writes like someone who doesnt just have a responsibility to his readers but also (in an unconventional way) to history."
New York Times "Benedict Nightingale's characteristically witty, insightful and enthusiastic reports make you wish you'd been sitting next to him during his greatest moments in the theatre."
Ian McKellen "A magnificently readable tour of theatrical history conducted by our best-informed living critic."
Michael Billington, Guardian "I've known Benedict Nightingale for more than fifty years over which time he has become one of the Theatre's most distinguished and influential commentators. He writes with style, perspective and wit, and with a deep knowledge of his subject. In turn he is greatly admired by the theatre profession and, as importantly, by his readers and the audiences who trust the fairness of his opinions."
Sir Peter Hall "Gloriously readable and vivid... painstakingly researched... It is the perfect stocking filler for all drama buffs." Stage "Nightingale is erudite, affable and has a deep knowledge and love of his subject. That becomes apparent early on in this delightful collection of essays… always smooth and readable, it is great to have the chance to share the enjoyment of a man who knows so much about theatre … should be on the reading and gift lists of everybody with any kind of love for the stage." British Theatre Guide "A lively book... a convincing argument for the importance of a long life in theater criticism....In capturing the thrill of seeing a theatrical event, Mr. Nightingale writes like someone who doesn’t just have a responsibility to his readers but also (in an unconventional way) to history."
New York Times "Benedict Nightingale's characteristically witty, insightful and enthusiastic reports make you wish you'd been sitting next to him during his greatest moments in the theatre."
Ian McKellen "A magnificently readable tour of theatrical history conducted by our best-informed living critic."
Michael Billington, Guardian "I've known Benedict Nightingale for more than fifty years over which time he has become one of the Theatre's most distinguished and influential commentators. He writes with style, perspective and wit, and with a deep knowledge of his subject. In turn he is greatly admired by the theatre profession and, as importantly, by his readers and the audiences who trust the fairness of his opinions."
Sir Peter Hall "Gloriously readable and vivid... painstakingly researched... It is the perfect stocking filler for all drama buffs." – Stage "Nightingale is erudite, affable and has a deep knowledge and love of his subject. That becomes apparent early on in this delightful collection of essays… always smooth and readable, it is great to have the chance to share the enjoyment of a man who knows so much about theatre … should be on the reading and gift lists of everybody with any kind of love for the stage." – British Theatre Guide