Great Expectations at the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry Review

Reviewed by Cate Norris

Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations tells the story of Pip, an orphan boy, brought up by his older sister and brother-in-law Joe Gargery, a blacksmith. Out of the blue, Pip is invited to Mrs Havisham’s home to play, after Mrs Havisham learns of the boy and has a fancy to see some play. Pip meets Mrs Havisham’s adopted daughter Estella and falls immediately in love with her beauty, however, Estella dismisses Pip as ‘course and common’. With a damaged ego Pip aspires to become a gentleman and win Estella’s love but Mrs Havisham stops Pip from visiting and Pip embarks on his life as Joe’s apprentice. Whilst working for Joe, Pip learns that he has a mystery benefactor and has his dream life awaiting him in London. In true Dickens form, the story deals with underlying issues of social inequality, poverty and social disadvantage as well as crime, betrayal, friendship, heartbreak, love and the true meaning of happiness.

Nichola McAuliffe was stunning as troubled Mrs Havisham. Making a grand entrance surrounded in white, she appeared to be some kind of angel, going to save young Pip. Yet it is soon clear that she is more like an ice queen, frozen in time and turning everything she touches ice cold, including Estella.

Sean Aydon’s performance as Pip was a little bit dry and failed to connect emotionally. The character of Pip transitions from child to adult throughout the show, however there was little change in the performance which was disappointing.

Edward Ferrow played several parts but shined as endearing Joe, the true hero in this tale. The warmth, and kindness of this character was portrayed exceptionally well and seemed to represent the hope for all that was good, honest and true in otherwise dark times.

The set was a simple black frame that served as Pip’s childhood home and workplace, as well as Mrs Havisham’s fort. Sound effects were created on stage to great effect, providing a realistic atmosphere. I particularly enjoyed the sounds of the blacksmiths and the beat that was created.

Although comical in parts, overall, I was disappointed by how confusing this was, an issue not likely helped by the number of characters playing several parts, or the same set used throughout. I had to really concentrate to work out what was going on, so unfortunately although I held great expectations, it wasn’t as great as I had expected.

Rating: 3.5/5

Tickets cost from £14.75 to £26.75 (booking fees may apply).

Great Expectations is at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry from 2-5 May 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.belgrade.co.uk or call the box office on 02476 55 3055.

Belgrade Theatre, Belgrade Square, Coventry, CV1 1GS | 02476 55 3055