Performing at The Orchard Theatre, Dartford until Saturday 15th April, The Shawshank Redemption is a play based on the work of Stephen King, adapted for the stage by Owen O'Neill and Dave Johns. Staring Joe Absolom (Eastenders, Doc Martin, Ashes to Ashes) as Andy Dufresne and Ben Onwukwe (The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, The 47th, Eastenders) as Ellis "Red" Redding the play contains strong imagery and fully immerses the audience into prison life in the Shawshank Maximum Security Penitentiary, over the course of twenty years.
While closely resembling many aspects of the film of the same title, the play does have some powerful moments that are unique to the theatre adaptation. Without giving any spoilers, the story of Tommy Williams, played by Coulter Dittman, plays out with an slightly altered ending more suited to the stage, and very powerful.
Very much an ensemble cast, each of the performances was powerful and grabbed attention throughout, whether it be the horrifying "Sisters" played by Jay Marsh and Leigh Jones and their heinous treatment of the other inmates, the sinister, yet believable Warden Stammas played by Mark Heenhan or the institutionalised Brooksie played by Kenneth Jay.
The set was incredible, it felt dark, sinister and real. The multi-level prison setting provided the perfect backdrop for the action and a stark contrast to the final scene. The play was roughly 2 hours 20 minutes, including the interval and it sped by; the acting was of such high quality and the storyline so compelling that it was expertly paced throughout.
The audience were captivated from start to finish, rarely have I found an auditorium so quiet as the play held our attention so well. Despite the uncomfortable nature of the story, there were lighter moments played out so well by the cast that the audience were treated to many laughs as well. The perfect combination of light and dark.
If you haven't read the book or seen the film, no need to worry, the play stands alone as an excellent piece of theatre, professionally produced and expertly performed. If you are a fan of the story already, you will not be disappointed, it is a true love letter to the original film/book and judging by the standing ovation the cast received at the end, a massive hit!
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