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OUR CLASS AT THE NATIONAL THEATRE
Opening tomorrow, the National ‘s latest show examines the experience of growing up in Poland in the shadow of World War II. It begins in 1925 with a class of Jewish and Catholic schoolchildren who declare their ambitions in life – film star, pilot, doctor. As they grow up first Soviet, then German armies tear their country apart, and betrayals, fear and violence ensue. Tadeusz Slobodzianek’s play is a powerful look at one of humanity’s darkest moments. Until 12 Jan, National Theatre Cottesloe, Southbank. Tickets from £10 from www.nationaltheatre.co.uk
ED BYRNE ON THE WEST END
He may not quite be a household name, but cheery Irish comedian Ed Byrne has built up a strong following since he appeared on the scene more than a decade ago. Byrne garnered a Perrier award nomination back in 1998, and has since gone on to become a panel show regular and a stand-up who can sell-out a run in the West End without too many problems. Expect to be shaking with laughter as Byrne tackles class issues in his latest tilt at theatreland. Until 3 Oct, Vaudeville Theatre, The Strand, WC2R 0NH. Tickets £16-£36 from www.ticketmaster.co.uk
EXQUISITE BODIES EXHIBITION
The Wellcome Collection is continuing its run of weird and rather wonderful exhibitions relating to medicine and wellbeing with this illuminating display of grizzly wax anatomical models used for medical training in the Victorian era. These curios speak as much of the peculiar social mores of the times in which they were made as they do of surgical practices, and while they’re undoubtedly macabre, they’re also intriguing and evocative of a haunting era. Until 18 Oct, Wellcome Collection, 183 Euston Road, NW1 2BE. The exhibition is free.