But Emma Rice’s parting gift to the Globe – the South Bank theatre she is leaving after just two seasons because of differences with the board – is no brickbat, but a bouquet. Romantics Anonymous is a multifaceted gem, chock-full of love, generosity and joy, and it fits the space like a glove. It charts the tricky relationship between reclusive chocolate-maker Angélique (Carly Bawden) and chocolate factory owner Jean-René (Dominic Marsh). Their delicate love affair is almost derailed by their crippling shyness, emotional inarticulacy and burdensome parental expectations. The scenes at the Alcoholics Anonymous-style meetings where everyone begins by announcing “Je suis emotif” are funny and heartbreakingly sad.

Source: The Guardian October 31, 2017 08:15 UTC