Following its press night on April 29, 2025, ‘My Master Builder’ at Wyndham’s Theatre has received a range of reviews from major publications. This modern reimagining of Ibsen’s ‘The Master Builder’, penned by Lila Raicek and directed by Michael Grandage, stars Ewan McGregor as architect Henry Solness, with Kate Fleetwood as his wife Elena and Elizabeth Debicki as Mathilde. Set in the Hamptons, the play delves into themes of ambition, betrayal, and gender dynamics.​

1. The Guardian – ‘Ewan McGregor’s cheating starchitect is torn down’

The Guardian praises the production for shifting focus from the male protagonist to his wife, Elena. Kate Fleetwood’s portrayal is described as “magnetic,” bringing depth to the character’s emotional journey. Ewan McGregor’s performance as Henry is noted as lacking the necessary narcissism, and the chemistry between him and Debicki’s Mathilde is considered tepid. The adaptation is commended for empowering its female characters and contextualizing their conflicts within modern feminist discourse, though some of the feminist debates are seen as overly conceptual. ​

2. The Independent – ‘The Architect’s visionary ideas feel underexplored’

The Independent highlights Kate Fleetwood’s formidable performance as Elena, noting that she outshines McGregor’s portrayal of Henry. The review appreciates the feminist reimagining of Ibsen’s original, with Elizabeth Debicki’s Mathilde depicted as a journalist critiquing male-dominated architecture. While McGregor brings charm to the role, the production is seen as a sharp critique of male ego and ambition.

3. What’s On Stage – ‘The reworking doesn’t work’

What’s On Stage criticizes the production as “ill-constructed,” stating that the adaptation struggles to find its footing. The review points out that while the play attempts to address contemporary issues, it falls short in execution. The performances, including McGregor’s, are seen as unable to elevate the material, leading to a disjointed experience. 

4. The Stage – ‘A glossy, contrived response to Ibsen’s classic’

The Stage describes the play as an “insubstantial riff on Ibsen,” suggesting that despite the star-studded cast, the production lacks depth. The review notes that the adaptation feels glossy and contrived, with McGregor and Debicki’s performances unable to compensate for the script’s shortcomings.

Overall, ‘My Master Builder’ has elicited mixed responses. While some critics appreciate the feminist reinterpretation and standout performances, particularly by Kate Fleetwood, others find the adaptation lacking in coherence and emotional resonance.​

The Guardian – 3 out of 5 stars

The Independent – 3 out of 5 stars

What’s On Stage – 2 out of 5 stars

The Stage – 2 out of 5 stars