Review: Great Expectations at Clwyd Theatr Cymru

Feb 18 2009 by Francesca Elliott, Chester Chronicle

GREAT EXPECTATIONS/Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold, until March 7

REVIEW/by Francesca Elliott

GREAT Expectations , Clwyd Theatr Cymru’s latest production by associate director Tim Baker, received standing ovations this week, as it began the first leg of its two month tour.

The story follows the life of Pip, who after meeting an escaped convict on the moors, and falling in love with the beautiful Estella, grows up to realise his childhood dream of becoming a gentleman.

The production features new music and lyrics by composer Greg Palmer, which thankfully complement, rather than overwhelm the story, which always retains the air of being a straight production rather than a musical.

The eight actors gave consistently good performances, especially Pip, played by Steven Meo and Vivien Parry as Miss Havisham, who gave off a suitable air of decay and decrepitude, as she hobbled around the stage in her iconic wedding dress.

Steffan Rhodri’s bumbling, warm hearted portrayal of Joe Gargery, often lends the story its comic element, but it is Pip’s childhood fight with Herbert pocket, which bags the best scene of the night award.

Great Expectations is at Clwyd Theatr Cymru until March 7. Box office: 0845 330 3565.