“Theatrical reimagination at its best.”
By Alejandra EncisoJul 20, 2026Full Review
PLAYREGIONALCLOSED
North by Northwest
The Old Globe, San Diego, CA
Ran from Jul 9, 2026
Regional production: tracked as a buzzy, well-reviewed show that could transfer to Broadway.
1 Rave
4 Positive
Critics' Take
Emma Rice's adaptation succeeds with style and panache, transforming Hitchcock's thriller into inventive physical theatre. Critics praise the creative staging and meta-theatrical approach, though the beloved film remains the benchmark.
This show has closed. Tickets are no longer available.
Critic Scorecard
5 reviews1 Rave
4 Positive
Sort:
Weighted by outlet tier · Counts
- Tier 1: 100%
- Tier 2: 75%
- Tier 3: 40%
- Tier 4: 20%
“‘North by Northwest’ showcases what happens when talented artists take a familiar story and joyfully reinvent it.”
By ErinMarie ReiterJul 11, 2026Full Review
“Yet, most importantly, Emma Rice’s stage version is a pure, intellectual, physical-theatre-based spoof/parody of the film, actively, entertainingly, and cleverly making fun of the Hitchcock thriller, filled with the formulas and conventions of thrillers, including spectacle and iconic locales.”
By Yuko KurahashiJul 13, 2026Full Review
“Even with those pacing issues, the lighthearted thriller still succeeds as retro summer escapist fun.”
By David DixonJul 14, 2026Full Review
“What keeps this production at arm's length is its insistence on explaining its own cleverness.”
By Michael M. Landman-KarnyJul 14, 2026Full Review
