Venue: Mary Wallace Theatre
Dates: Until 24 September
OUR VERDICT:
★★★★
Whilst the parameters and severity of the divide between class and sex have weathered since Miss Julie’s debut in 1888, the themes of societal struggle remain every bit as prevalent and are terrifically and tragically brought to life by the Richmond Shakespeare Society at the Mary Wallace Theatre.
Unfolding over the course of a Midsummer’s Eve, the play centres around the eponymous Miss Julie (Beckis Cooper) and her valet, Jean (Jack Lumb), as the two wrestle with their dreams and desire for change.
Julie, fiery and passionate, longs to uncouple herself from the traumas of her unconventional upbringing and the reputation she has since acquired, whilst Jean is ruthlessly determined to ascend the ranks and one day stake his claim on a piece of land.
The diametrically opposed duo intertwine, argue and compromise on their disillusioned ideals as Kristen (Danielle Thompson), Jean’s fiance and Julie’s cook, watches on, interposing her pious and paltry perspectives on the roles of man and woman under God.
As a smaller venue, the Mary Wallace lends itself to the intimate nature of Miss Julie. Set entirely in the Manor kitchen, scenes laden with lust put the audience in an almost voyeuristic position. When tensions rise, the set feels purposefully claustrophobic.
Despite the static set, the play never lacks a sense of dynamism and makes great use of props and lighting to flesh out the night's progression and the deterioration of the leads.
Like a finch in its cage, this tale of midsummer madness, of man and woman, and of society and stature, is lovingly retold and expertly delivered. With wonderful performances all around, Beckis Cooper makes a phenomenal debut to the Richmond Shakespeare Society and her delivery of Miss Julie is one not to miss.
On stage until the 24th of September, be sure to book your tickets soon!
