Review Roundup: What are the critics saying about Teeth 'n' Smiles?

Published on 27 March 2026

Returning to the stage 50 years after its original premiere, Teeth ’n’ Smiles is back in the West End in a new revival at the Duke of York's Theatre. The production is led by Self Esteem, who takes on the central role of Maggie. Her casting follows a recent run at the same venue, where she launched her critically acclaimed album A Complicated Woman.

But did the revival leave the critics smiling, or did they grit their teeth throughout?

What is Teeth ‘n’ Smiles about?

Set during the chaotic energy of a May Ball at a Cambridge college in the 1970s, the play follows a struggling rock band fronted by the volatile and charismatic Maggie. As the night unfolds, tensions within the group begin to surface, exposing the pressures of performance, fame, and self-destruction. Blending music with drama, the story explores ambition, identity and the cost of creative expression, as Maggie teeters between brilliance and breakdown.

Teeth 'n' Smiles review roundup

What are the critics saying about Teeth ‘n’ Smiles

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “ Self Esteem is a blazing star who illuminates the stage. She is sensational” - WhatsOnStage

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “ Jagged and intense. Self Esteem gives a formidable portrayal of a talent in free fall” - The Times

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Phil Daniels is mesmerising as wheeling, dealing band manager Saraffian” The Independent 

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Thrilling, touching and funny” - The Arts Desk 

“Inspired casting…energetic, infectious and often sensational” - The Guardian 

“Self Esteem is magnetic” - The Financial Times 

"Taylor unleashes her magnificent voice in a cry of nihilistic heartbreak in Maggie’s Song, a new number she has written especially for this production" - The Telegraph 

Teeth 'n' Smiles plays at the Duke of York's Theatre until 6 June 2026