Performer: John Malkovich

John Malkovich’s provocative new music-theatre work reminds us all of the power of music – in the wrong hands.

The Giacomo Variations takes its time really getting down to business – the business Giacomo Casanova was in – the business of love.It begins with a lot of theatre business. The set, designed by Renate Martin and Andreas Donhauser, consists of three gigantic Marie-Antoinette skirts. Lift one and there’s a bed for romping.

Malkovich and Alexey Igudesman present The Music Critic, which presents the best critical barbs throughout history on stage – proving the actor’s deadpan style is perfect for throwing shade.