Rupert Goold begins his final season as Almeida Theatre’s Artistic Director with a bold revival of American Psycho. Similarly, this musical returns to the venue where it first premiered in 2013, before transferring to the West End.
The musical, with book by Roberta Aguirre-Sacasa and music and lyrics by Duncan Sheik, adapts Brett Easton Ellis’ 1990s satire. Meanwhile, Arty Froushan stars as Patrick Bateman, bringing electrifying charisma to the role. The character’s delusions and existential crisis feel strikingly relevant today.
Bateman’s jealousy over rival investment banker Paul Owen sparks a collapse in his carefully curated life. As a result, he begins questioning his purpose despite wealth, a designer lifestyle, and a successful girlfriend. Eventually, vicious thoughts emerge, and a darker, violent side surfaces.
Ellis’ novel explored the tension between the sensitive modern man and violent impulses. Like Fight Club and The Football Factory, it questioned masculinity under social constraints. Consequently, Bateman became a poster boy for image-obsessed men, a template for the darker sides of modern masculinity now often seen online. In this adaptation, the musical deliberately frames him as empty and lost, inviting audiences to judge while reflecting themselves.
Goold’s staging thrills. Big set pieces energize the intimate Almeida space. Additionally, Lynne Page’s choreography grows bolder as the score progresses. Video and lighting design by Finn Ross and Jon Clark enhance Es Devlin’s minimal, sharp sets.
Bateman’s world feels immersive and sexy. For instance, the audience follows him from offices to clubs, apartments, gyms, and seedy downtown spaces. Consequently, his drugs, sex, and spiraling indulgence blur into the story’s violent climax. However, Goold adds depth, showing Bateman’s pain and eventual reckoning beneath the hedonism.
Froushan delivers a star-making performance. His dark charisma captures attention from the first moment and holds it for the entire three-hour show. Moreover, his portrayal balances charm, unpredictability, and satire, highlighting Bateman’s emptiness and societal pressures.
Other cast members struggle with underwritten roles. Oli Higginson (Timoth), Emily Barber (Evelyn), and Tanisha Spring (Courtney) face limited material, although Anastasia Martin shines as secretary Jean. Still, the ensemble supports the production strongly.
Act One sometimes drags and could benefit from cuts, yet the production remains powerful. The show continues to explore the challenges of modern masculinity, proving that it remains relevant even in 2026.
American Psycho Almeida runs until 14 March 2026.
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