My expectations for The Shawshank Redemption as a live theatre play were not very high as the film version with Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins is one of my all time favourite films.  I did wonder how a stage version would compare.

Well - no reason to worry, this production more than holds its own.  The stage and props really help set the atmosphere for this innocent man trapped in a brutal prison, everything feels confined and oppressive.

The all male cast did excellent work, it feels wrong to single out any actor as they all gave great performances, but I'll do it anyway!

 Ben Onwukwe as Ellis 'Red' Redding was my star of the show with his warm, mellow, all encompassing voice that pulls you into this brutal world.

 Paul Nicholls (as Andy Dufresne), plays the part with just the right amount of understatment, his unassuming manner with the hint of steel perfect for the part.  

Jack Ellis as prison Warden Stammas was quietly menacing, the egotistical master of this brutal world, controlling the prisoners and guards like chess pieces, in the end out manouvered by Andy Dufresne long game.

This was the first 'serious' play I've been to see as an adult, my usual fare being musicals and comedies and I thoroughly enjoyed my evening.  Well done Lowry theatre and staff!

The Shawshank Redemption (adapted from a Stephen King short story) The Lowry Theatre Mon 5 - Sat 10 September

For more information:

www.thelowry

 

Comments
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.