Review: Dickens Abridged at the Arts Theatre

Dickens Abridged

Arts Theatre

Reviewed on Monday 2nd December 2013

Dickens Abridged is the most exciting show I have seen for a very long time, it is incredibly refreshing to see such a creative production in the West End. Adam Long's piece thinks outside the box in every way possible.

Not only does this 90-minute show bring many of Charles Dickens' stories to life condensed into short, comical sequences, but in-between Dickens Abridged also delves into Dickens' life story. The concept is clever, fascinating and doesn't feel overly formulaic as the piece has been put together so well. 

What makes this show work, and prevents it from becoming a stupid chaotic mess, is the tremendous cast and their creative involvement. It really feels as if they are performing their own show which is something you rarely see in the West End. The cast’s chemistry is sublime and each performer simply 'gets' the piece. They understand the style and the humour and aren't afraid to be spontaneous when things go wrong. It was a joy to watch.

Not only do the cast run on and off stage playing hundreds of characters, but they also play all the music on-stage too. A special mention must go to Jon Robyns whose vocal talents are so smooth and effortless. Damian Humbley, Kit Orton, Gerard Carey, Matthew Hendrickson and Robyns all excel in every single role they play. There isn’t a weak character or a poor moment. 

You don't have to be a hardcore Dickens fan to love and appreciate Dickens Abridged (although, of course, if you happen to be a diehard Dickens fan you will find yourself in heaven). I'm somewhere in the middle - whilst I'm not a Dickens expert I am, like most, very familiar with his work. Perhaps one or two references went over my head, but I never found myself feeling confused. My personal favourite sections were the unique takes on Oliver, Great Expectations and A Christmas Carol (I particularly loved the 'Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come').

For a fun, adventurous and high quality evening at the theatre, look no further than Dickens Abridged. I can think of no better panto-alternative. It certainly isn't just a children’s show, Dickens Abridged provides a fun evening/afternoon for ALL the family. You might even learn something (but without realising it).

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

andrew@westendframe.com

Dickens Abridged runs at the Arts Theatre until Sunday 5th January 2014.
Please visit www.dickensabridged.com for further information and tickets.

Photo Credit: Hydar Dewachi

Follow @West_End_Frame