Great Expectations

Arguably one of Charles Dickens greatest novels Great Expectations has been adapted for the stage by Jo Clifford. In this adaption Pip’s story has been condensed with parts just sketched in or narrated. Apart from constants Pip, Estelle and Miss Havisham, the actors doubled their roles showing true acting ability.

The set was quite simple really, with a central gateway, behind which, we could see Miss Havisham’s cobweb covered wedding cake. On either side of the gate were two rostra, used to great effect to delineate different scenes (I wouldn’t have liked to go up and down those narrow steps in a long skirt!). Central stage was also used for most of the action. James Dean’s lighting design was of great importance to highlight the action. Costumes were good as were hair and make-up.

Jack Stevens as young and old Pip gave a super performance, he was on stage the whole time and was totally engaging throughout carrying his role with part acting and part narration. Caroline Edwards gave a deeply sad, but chilling performance as the owner of Satis House – Miss Havisham. She was able to switch with being kindly toward Pip and then somewhat disturbing. A compelling performance by Louise Knapp as the icy, haughty Estelle, who always seemed to treat Pip with disdain despite his love for her. My admiration must go to David Adam who had the unenviable task of playing two completely different characters Mr Joe, a rough and ready Blacksmith and Wemmick, clerk to lawyer Jaggers,sometimes with such quick changes with accent, character and costume. The rest of the cast seemed to have their dual roles as contrasts – Magwitch, the escaped convict/ Herbert Pocket – Pip’s friend(Laurence Plumb). The unpleasant Mrs. Joe/Sarah Pocket (Jean Erxleben). Biddy/Camilla Pocket (Nimueh Ferdinando). Lawyer Jaggers/Wopsie (David Smith). Bentley Drummle/Raymond (Peter Emanuel). If I had a hat, I would take it off to all of them for their versatility. 

What director Sandra Barfield has managed to achieve with her hugely talented cast was a compelling piece of theatre.    

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