Of Mice And Men

18th March - 8th April 2023

The Birimgham Rep 

By Neil Cox

Written by John Steinbeck and directed by Iqbal Khan. 

A gripping, classic novel that has held the test of time for over eighty years, John Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men' addressing racism, prejudice and economic migration; topics which are comparable to modern day. 

Long shadows, dramatic lighting engulfed the stage with a faint background noise captivated the audience throughout the whole performance; a performance lasting approximately two and three quarter hours (inc. an interval) culminating with a rapturous response and applause from the audience!

An auditorium that was crammed full and a run of three weeks highlights the popularity that this novel still holds. A novel that is still studied and for me personally it is the one book I actually really enjoyed studying at school. 

The production was produced and delivered to a high standard with outstanding performances by Tom McCall (George) and William Young (Lennie) who portrayed their characters with style and decorum. Fans of TV's Eastenders (Nancy Carter) will recognise Maddy Hill performing Curley's Wife and a notable part and mention from Reece Pantry (Crooks); a little disappointed his part was small compared with the book.

For a brief moment I was captivated by the visual effects especially the dog and puppeteer Jake Benson. Please note there are scenes that involve some violence, loud gunshots and the use of inappropriate language which will offend. 

The climax of the performance between Lennie and Curley's wife had been toned down I felt in comparison with the book and perhaps could have been a little more dramatic; however it was still shocking and hard hitting and by the end of the performance left me with a 'lump in my throat,' a tear in my eye and speechless! 

I must highly recommend this play for the acting, attention to detail with both set and costume and the rapport the cast had with each other. 

Thank you to The Rep, Birmingham a definite 5/5 star performance ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️