Review: I'm Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Too at Barons Court Theatre 4th Nov - 9th Nov 2025
‘What if I am already half gone?’ ★★★★★
I’m Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Too is a production that explores Bipolar Disorder, Identity and Relationships in a way that is impactful and original. The show opens in a pre-set; all actors on stage, the set fully laid out across the space as the audience filters in. Something that separates other pre-sets from this one is that actors seem to usually interact with the audience as themselves. For anyone having read the show’s blurb, this opening feels like a surprisingly warm welcome.
This production can pride itself on its attention to detail. Clothing, set design and lighting all work to define a cohesive blend. At the beginning we absorb a warm autumnal palette, that, throughout the play progresses into cooler tones. Perhaps a visual analogy for Victoria’s mental state.
The set design begins as Victoria’s home; that then shifts into various locations; what is clear about this work is that we always know where we are. In a narrative in which Victoria’s world is so fragmented by Bipolar Disorder, our view of the happenings remains focused. Paired with this intimate venue, there is a vulnerability in how we are in Victoria’s home amongst her things.
Dialogue feels natural and relatable as this work examines in-depth topics. Atterbury’s writing allows actors to breathe, move and leaves room for plenty of subtext making layered, complex scenes. There are plenty of funny moments in there too, nodding to the closeness and intelligence of the characters. In addition, the humour provides a light and shade effect that has the audience laughing along.
The love triangle is well thought out and nuanced; it’s not about two men fighting over a girl, a through line we often see, but rather a woman that is in control of the dynamic. Victoria seems to be the driving force.
The play’s director Olamide Candide-Johnson… guides her cast to exhibit peak, consistent performances and presents us with an all rounded, stand-out show. As well as strong performances individually and as an ensemble, actors had a grounded physicality in the space too. The production is well staged and seems to meld perfectly with the space. This vulnerable piece is made most visible by Candide-Johnson. In an almost in the round style theatre, we see the actor’s expressions at all times.
The writer and leading actress Coline Atterbury whose credits include appearances on BBC, Channel 4 and numerous stage productions; gives a dynamic, contrasting and chilling performance as her character Victoria. She takes a journey that is believable; its pace builds tension and suspense. Atterbury skilfully balances both subtlety and expansiveness in her performance; making this writer’s debut of hers all the more human.
Charlie Coombes as Mark has a warm and humorous presence as Victoria's boyfriend. His honesty and openness endears. He has strong chemistry with Atterbury and plays across from her well. His stability further outlines Victoria’s instability when she is at her worst. Andrew Hawley as Leon is a charming, sharp witted character and has a playful rapport with Victoria. While Leon is equally as caring he brings out a different side of Victoria. He battles between love and allowance as he watches her spiral.
Connection and intimacy is a principle aspect of this show; closeness, romance and intensity is expertly directed by intimacy coordinator; Vlad Troncea. The focus on relationships in this play is prominent; it highlights how our own mental health affects those around us and our partners.
Transitions between scenes felt fluid and were accompanied by sound designer Marie Zschommler, who selected music that was fitting for the scenes. I’m afraid of Virginia Woolf, Too is entirely relevant. The production raises conversations around Bipolar Disorder and mental health that weren’t being had during Woolf’s time. This show was met with a well deserved standing ovation.
You will laugh, cry and gasp as you see this journey of identity and ambition unfold. Whether you are familiar with Virginia Woolf’s body of work or not, this is a riveting story to follow. A fantastic contemporary production with classical literary features; this is one to watch.
I'm Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Too
Voila Festival
Barons Court theatre 4 – 9 November
BOX OFFICE https://www.voilafestival.co.uk/events/im-afraid-of-virginia-woolf-too/
Writer: Coline Atterbury
Director: Olamide Candide-Johnson
Cast: Andrew Hawley, Coline Atterbury, Charlie Coombes
