Of Mice and Men at the King’s Theatre Edinburgh Review
Of Mice and Men
King’s Theatre, Edinburgh
26-30 April 2016
Reviewed by Dee Ryz
If you are looking for a production of ‘Of Mice and Men’ which stay’s true to John Steinbeck’s classic novel, look no further! The Touring Consortium Theatre Company / Birmingham Reparatory Theatre Production performance was very moving.
‘Of Mice and Men’ is the story of two farm workers set in the Great Depression, who find themselves heading to California in search of work to realise their dream of owning a small farm to ‘live of the fat of the land’. Having had to leave their last post due to a misunderstanding, upon arriving at the farm, the men try and steer clear of trouble however they find themselves in some difficult situations, including one which leads to a heart-stopping climax. A wonderful tale of hardship and friendship, it’s a book written for the stage!
The onstage relationship between the two main characters, George (William Rodell) and Lennie (Kristian Phillips) was true to form – George’s stern-but-fair steadfastness balanced perfectly with Lennie’s bumbling naivety (and his obsession with rabbits!). The supporting cast’s portrayal of bunkmates Slim (Jonah Russell), Whit (Nicholas Goode) and Candy (the well-known actor, Dudley Scott) – not forgetting the dog (Tara!) – was all very authentic, even if the accents wavered occasionally!
Through clever use of staging and props, the scenes changes were quick and depicted the ‘Wild West’ – the whole play took place upon a raised set with a ‘running’ creek, including reeds! With a live band situated just off stage, (think banjos and harmonicas!), the feel was very true of the 1920 era in which the tale was set.
Taking place in the beautifully restored Victorian King’s Theatres situated at Tollcross in Edinburgh city centre, you can access the theatre easily as it is close to both Haymarket and Waverly train stations (walkable distance), with on street parking nearby (free after 6.30pm) and great bus links nearby.
An honest play and wonderful adaptation from book to stage, I would highly recommend a viewing.
Rating: 3.5/5
Tickets cost from £17 to £30.50 (booking fees may apply).
Of Mice and Men is at the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh until 30 April 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0131 529 6000.
King’s Theatre, 2 Leven Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9LQ | 0131 529 6000
