REVIEW: Far from the Madding Crowd
WHEN it comes to analysis of the human condition few can out do Thomas Hardy.
Combine that with the technical brilliance of Mark Healy, who adapted the novel for stage, and Rachel Tackley, director, the effect is simply breathtaking.
Far from the Madding Crowd is one of Hardy's most famous tales and tells the story of Bathsheba Everdene.
A pretty yet vain girl, Bathsheba comes into money when she inherits her uncle's farm at a young age.
As headstrong as she is beautiful Bathsheba sets about proving herself to the workers on the farm.
However, Bathsheba's vanity looks to be her downfall as she falls for more and more unsuitable men, ignoring her true love, the simple shepherd, Gabriel Oak.
Rebecca O'Mara plays the lead wonderfully, bringing sensitivity and humour to a sometimes galling role.
Her true love Phil Cheadle endears himself to the audience at once with his witty asides and lovable honesty.
The adaptation is notable for its warmth and humour, something which can be forgotten as directors get bogged down with the tale of human suffering.
Another notable addition is the choreography interweaved with more traditional action.
Special mentions must also go to the wonderfully bashful Joseph Poorgrass played by Gareth Williams and Laura Elphinstone's Liddy Smallbury.
Despite some somewhat dubious accents Far from the Madding Crowd was a joy.
This production brings a fresh and contemporary feel to a fabulous story.
Far from the Madding Crowd runs until November 29 at Brighton's Theatre Royal.
Hannah Russell
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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