The muted theatre adaptation of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men features a duo of itinerant friends, George and Lennie, navigating life during the Great Depression. The staging, directed by Sarah Brigham, includes a cast led by Wiliam Young, who resonates authenticity through his portrayal of Lennie's vulnerabilities and interactions, employing puppets for a novel representation of his connection to animals. However, Brigham's static direction undermines the narrative's emotional impact, lacking tension and urgency, particularly in the climactic moments of violence. The final reveal exposes the illusory nature of their dreams, which starkly contrasts with the golden ambitions they chase throughout the play.
The production employs puppets for the animals Lennie interacts with, creating a unique dimension to both his character and the narrative's emotional landscape. His gentle demeanor resonates poignantly with the audience.
Brigham’s direction lacks dynamism, with characters arranged rather flatly on props, which dilutes the emotional stakes of the story and makes the eventual tragedy feel less impactful.
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