The Critics’ Circle
Protecting and promoting cultural criticism since 1913
The Critics’ Circle believes impartial, professional criticism of the arts is an essential ingredient of a healthy society. The Circle today has 503 members shared between Theatre (117), Music (91), Film (151), Dance (57), Visual Arts (47) and Books (40). Admission to the Circle is by invitation from the Council.
Each year since 1988, the Circle has presented the Rosebowl for Distinguished Service to the Arts to an artist of conspicuous achievement. In 2019 the members voted for David Hockney and in 2020 for Dame Janet Baker.
The sections make their own awards in ceremonies which are significant social occasions, and hold periodic meetings and lunches to discuss their awards, propose new members, debate current issues and meet artists.
President: Suzi Feay
Vice-President: Robert Thicknesse
Hon. General Secretary: Rick Jones criticscircleallsections@gmail.com
Hon. Treasurer: Peter Cargin
Trustees: Ian Herbert, Michael Billington, Peter Cargin
News & reviews
THE VALKYRIE, LONDON COLISEUM
The question of when and where to set Wagner’s Ring is an entirely open one, since like Arthur and Lear, it is everywhere and nowhere. Richard Jones (director) and Stewart Laing (set and costume designer) answer this by locating Act 1 of Valkyrie in a Wickes shed, Act...
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Popular Pachyderms: Miss Clara and the Celebrity Beast in Art 1500-1860 at the Barber Institute.
Maybe you have been fortunate enough to see a rhinoceros in the flesh, running at full tilt with a speed and agility that defies its bulk. They carry with them the aura of the African plains and the jungles of India and you know you have been privileged to see one....
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Dame Janet Baker accepts the Rosebowl
At the National Liberal Club last week, the Critics’ Circle presented the opera singer Dame Janet Baker with the Rosebowl Award for "Distinguished Service to Art". The vote for this most endearing of prime donne had been cast in 2019 but certain world health issues...
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RIGOLETTO, ROYAL OPERA HOUSE
The Royal Opera’s new Rigoletto has the casting is just right. Lisette Oropesa’s Gilda (who shares the role with Rosa Feola) manages the difficult balance between the coloratura writing of the part and the youthful innocence of the role. After all, she mustn’t be...
read moreMadeleine, Harlequin Theatre, Redhill
Kelly Glyptis, in the title role, and Thomas Kelly as her lover Emile, in 'Madeleine' Surrey Opera is a semi-professional company, founded in 1969. Like many similar companies around the country, they offer a platform for young and aspiring singers. Unlike those...
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