Of Mice and Men

Synopsis

Set against the harsh backdrop of the Great Depression, Of Mice and Men is the story of George and Lennie, two friends with a simple dream: to own a farm and live off the fat of the land. There are times, though, when sharpwitted George feels the burden of looking after Lennie, while gentle giant Lennie doesn't realise his own strength... As they drift from job to job, trouble's never far away, and before long it's time to move on again. When the pair get work in Soledad, California, however, the dream looks set to become a reality. But a tragic turn of events threatens to destroy George and Lennie's friendship and leaves George faced with an impossible choice...

Our Review:

Chris Snow - 14 May 2012

Of Mice And Men was written by John Steinbeck in 1937, but it feels just as relevant today as ever. Set in California, two migrant workers are drifting between ranches, working on the land. Lennie (David Ganly) is a gentle man with learning difficulties, guarded dutifully by his best friend George (Thomas Padden). The men share a dream that one day they will open a farm together, keep rabbits and work on the land. This is a story of friendship and devotion in the face of adversity.

With a large ensemble and intricate set by Hayley Grindle, the theatre feels cramped, but thanks to lighting from Paul Anderson has an electric atmosphere with tones of blues and shadows cast beautifully on the corrugated iron set.

Ian Porter as Slim and Ganly as Lennie both give truly touching performances, and it’s a joy to see them in such an intimate space. Ganly takes on this notoriously difficult part with true sensitivity, and pitches it perfectly. Sad...

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Latest User Review

Sue Bobrucki - 15 May 2012:

Wonderful performances, totally engrossing. A classy show....

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