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The Grapes of Wrath

Published Friday 17 July 2009 at 13:00 by Michael Sell

Frank Galati’s adaptation of John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath is generally successful in facing most of the problems of such a development and, although it would appear to have been conceived as an ensemble piece, the balance and emphasis on different characters does not always make for easy relationships.

Simon Higlett’s original off centre design works well and Jonathan Church directs an at times riveting piece, with a deep understanding of the period. The cast of more than 20, including some community actors are kept on a very tight rein.

Steinbeck’s writing describes historical and sociological situations, some of which are as relevant today as they were then, although the geographic context may have changed.

Tom, the convict on licence played by Damian O’Hare, is a man of many parts, who develops a philosophical attitude which is not always at one with his understandable anger. Oliver Cotton as the ex preacher Jim Casy, gives an extremely dignified and thoughtful performance which acts as the fulcrum of much of the play. Sorcha Cusack, as Tom’s mother and leader of the Joad family identifies with the emotions of things going right and wrong, and with the problems of unity within the family, and Christopher Timothy plays the hopeful father with a good work ethic with sincerity and hope. The tensions of the situation are well developed by the whole cast with a special mention of Richard Kane’s role as grandfather. An evening of provocative theatre, enhanced by well-performed, evocative music.

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