Alex Salmond, David Troughton, and Heida Reed Shine at West End Opening of 'Beginning'

Star-Studded Opening Night

Last night, the West End witnessed a dazzling celebration as David Eldridge's intimate new play, Beginning, officially opened its doors at the Ambassador Theatre. The red carpet—or rather, the theatre's cozy foyer—was alive with a mix of political heavyweights, television royalty, and theatrical legends.

Among the glittering attendees was former First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond, whose presence added a dash of political prestige to the evening. Salmond, known for his iconic role in the Scottish independence movement, seemed perfectly at ease among the thespian crowd. Alongside him was Heida Reed, the Icelandic actress who shot to international fame as Elizabeth Warleggan in the hit BBC period drama Poldark. Reed, elegant as ever, graced the event with her signature poise.

But the family affair of the night belonged to the Troughtons. Star Sam Troughton was supported by his father, actor David Troughton, who recently delivered a powerhouse performance in the RSC's Titus Andronicus. The elder Troughton, a veteran of stage and screen, beamed with pride as photographers snapped the duo. Comedian Miles Jupp also made an appearance, adding a touch of wit to the proceedings.

The Play That's Captivating London

David Eldridge's Beginning is not your typical West End spectacle. Set entirely at the end of a housewarming party, the play zeroes in on an awkward, tender courtship between two 30-somethings, played with raw chemistry by Sam Troughton and Justine Mitchell. Directed by Polly Findlay, the production originally premiered at the National Theatre's Dorfman space, where it earned rave reviews. Critic Sarah Crompton described it as "honest, funny and good-hearted"—a sentiment that clearly resonated with audiences.

The play's transfer to the Ambassadors Theatre marks a major moment for Eldridge, whose nuanced writing delves deep into the vulnerabilities of modern romance. With no flashy sets or gimmicks, Beginning relies on the sheer power of its dialogue and the magnetic pull of its two-hander performances.

The Audience: A Who's Who of Celebrity

• Alex Salmond – The former SNP leader and Scottish First Minister brought political gravitas, reflecting the broad appeal of the play.
• Heida Reed – The Poldark star added a touch of period-drama glamour, her presence a nod to the blend of classic and contemporary talent in the room.
• David Troughton – A Shakespearean powerhouse, his attendance underscored the family legacy—his father Patrick Troughton was the second Doctor Who, making the Troughton name synonymous with British acting royalty.
• Miles Jupp – The comedian and actor, known for his wit, provided a counterbalance to the intense drama on stage.
• Justine Mitchell & Sam Troughton – The leading duo were the stars of the night, receiving a warm reception from the invited crowd.

Behind the Scenes: The Journey to the West End

Beginning started its life at the National Theatre, where it debuted in 2017. The transfer to the West End was swift, testament to the demand for smart, intimate storytelling. The play runs at the Ambassadors Theatre until March 24, 2018. Produced by a team of top-tier producers, the show has already become a talking point among London's theatre critics and social crowds alike.

The play's setting—a single living room after a party—may seem simple, but its emotional complexity is anything but. Eldridge, known for his searing The Knot of the Heart and the film adaptation of The Inseparables, once again demonstrates his knack for capturing the hesitations and vulnerabilities of human connection.

Alex Salmond's Unexpected Theatrical Foray

For those unfamiliar with his cultural footprints, Alex Salmond's presence at a theatre opening might raise eyebrows. But the former First Minister has long been a patron of the arts, frequently attending events in Edinburgh and London. His appearance at Beginning highlights the cross-pollination between politics and the stage—a relationship that often yields fascinating insights into both worlds.

Salmond, who served as First Minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014, remains a controversial yet magnetic figure. His support for the arts has been unwavering, and this cameo at a West End opening only cements his reputation as a man of many interests.

The Troughton Dynasty: A Night of Pride

David Troughton's presence was especially poignant. The actor, who has graced the RSC and the National Theatre for decades, watched his son Sam take the spotlight in a demanding two-handler. Sam Troughton, best known for his role in the TV series Misfits and the film Alien vs. Predator, is carving his own path. The Troughton acting dynasty—spanning from grandfather Patrick to David and now Sam—represents a legacy of dedication to the craft.

Photographers captured a touching moment of David Troughton offering a quiet word of encouragement to his son backstage. While no private conversations were officially recorded, the body language spoke volumes about the family's deep connection to theatre.

Heida Reed: From Cornish Cliffs to London Lights

Heida Reed, the Icelandic beauty who captivated audiences as Elizabeth in Poldark, has been making waves in London's theatre scene. At the opening of Beginning, she mingled with cast members and posed for photos, her glowing presence a reminder that stage acting remains a magnet for television talent. Reed's own stage credits include work with the National Theatre, and her attendance at the event was a gesture of support for fellow performers.

The combination of political, comedic, and dramatic talent at this single event encapsulates the unique allure of West End openings. They are not just about one show; they are a microcosm of the entire cultural landscape.

The Ambassadors Theatre: An Intimate Venue

The Ambassadors Theatre, located in the heart of London's theatre district, is known for its intimate atmosphere, with just over 400 seats. This makes it the perfect venue for a play like Beginning, which thrives on close observation of its characters. The opening night crowd filled the space with a palpable energy, and early word-of-mouth suggests the run will be a sell-out.

As the evening wound down, guests spilled out onto West Street, the buzz of conversation mixing with the sounds of London's nightlife. For one night, the intersection of politics, television, and theatre created something truly special—a testament to the enduring power of live storytelling. Beginning continues at the Ambassadors Theatre until March 24, 2018. Tickets are available now, but move fast: this is the season's most talked-about debut.

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