Review

Review: London Tide, National Theatre

Hattie Fisk reviews the National Theatre's London Tide, assessing how it may be used in the drama classroom.
 Brandon Grace (Charley Hexam), Jake Wood (Gaffer Hexam) and Ami Tredrea (Lizzie Hexam) in London Tide at the National Theatre
Brandon Grace (Charley Hexam), Jake Wood (Gaffer Hexam) and Ami Tredrea (Lizzie Hexam) in London Tide at the National Theatre - Marc Brenner

When a Charles Dickens story is adapted for stage or screen, it can go one of two ways: it can bring the writers thrilling words to life, or things can get muddled, convoluted and on occasion, boring. Sadly, this production falls firmly and unmistakably in the latter.

Dickens is known for weaving storylines together like threads of a tapestry, usually uniting in a twist of cruel fate for characters we come to know and love. Lost family fortunes, hidden identities and forbidden lovers are commonplace in his stories. London Tide featured all three - almost predictably so.

This new adaptation from Ben Power is taken from the lesser-known story of Our Mutual Friend from Dickens.

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