11 April-12 May 2012
Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester
August Strindberg’s powerful production of ‘Miss Julie’ is brought to Manchester’s Royal Exchange this Easter. The new adaptation deals with the struggles between class and power. This dramatic new version of a well-known classic is masterfully adapted by David Eldridge.
Set on Midsummer night, the lady of the estate, Miss Julie breaks convention and her social class to join in the evening’s frivolities and dancing.
Miss Julie, played brilliantly by local actress, Maxine Peake, is attracted to servant, Jean, played by Joe Armstrong. Jean is an attractive, educated and debonair footman who, although engaged, instantly attracts Miss Julie’s attention. Together they talk, tease and flirt with one another, toying with their power and sexual attraction.
Their chemistry bubbles and eventually takes hold of the lovers and leads to a dramatic finale. The play raises questions about love, lust and power between the sexes.
The casting of this production is excellent. Maxine Peake is superb as the sensual Miss Julie and Joe Armstrong steals the show as Jean. The leads complement one another perfectly. This production is powerful and thought provoking but it also has glimpses of humour layered throughout.
A strong production with an excellent supporting cast and lead actors.
Go and see this brilliant take on a classic play.
