Hope, Steel Bars and Standing Ovations: The Shawshank Redemption Triumphs on Stage

Rating:  * * * * *

Wow, what a masterpiece of a theatre production!

This was an excellent adaptation of a classic book and film into an outstanding piece of theatre!

With superb acting and an elaborate set design depicting the Shawshank Prison, this play had the audience captivated from start to finish.  Many plays receive a standing ovation on guest/press night for a variety of reasons however with this play, it was truly deserved; the audience not wanting the actors to leave the stage as they wanted to show their appreciation for what they had just witnessed.  This play encapsulated the book and film in its entirety, drawing you in and wringing you out with a rollercoaster of emotions.  The entire cast delivered with conviction their lines that had you truly believing and rooting for their characters. Alongside this was excellent direction and production skills which contributed to this play’s success.  A particular commendation must go to Joe McFadden, Ben Onwukwe and Bill Ward.

If this tour is visiting a theatre near you then please ensure you purchase tickets as you will not be disappointed.

Synopsis:

Based on Stephen King’s 1982 novella, this thrilling stage production examines friendship and hope behind the claustrophobic bars of a maximum-security facility. The 1994 feature film was nominated for seven Academy Awards.

Despite protests of his innocence, Andy Dufresne is handed a double life sentence for the brutal murders of his wife and her lover. Incarcerated in the notorious Shawshank facility, he quickly learns that no one can survive alone.
Andy strikes up an unlikely friendship with the prison fixer Red, and things start to take a slight turn for the better. However, when Warden Stammas decides to bully Andy into subservience and exploit his talents for accountancy, a desperate plan is quietly hatched…

Fear will hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free!