Creating an adaptation of a Dickens novel in less than three hours is always going to be a challenging affair; there are labyrinthine plots, complex character relationships and shifts in time and place to overcome.

This production of Great Expectations at the Bristol Old Vic, directed and adapted for the stage by Neil Bartlett, makes a valiant effort to capture the tone of the novel through the use of classic Dickensian melodrama and a strong ensemble presence.

However, aspects of this production feel somewhat disjointed: the sparse staging, though used at times to great comic effect, is also cumbersome and ultimately distracting.

On an opening night, this might be excused, but in this instance there was a feeling that the cast were struggling with the more complex scene changes.

This being said, sound and lighting design, by Timothy X Atack and Rick Fisher respectively, were slick and well-utilised, lending the production much of its professional edge.

The same can be said of the overall ensemble cast. A collection of seasoned actors delivered impeccable performances, with note especially due to Lindsay Dukes’ Mrs Joe / Biddy / Wemmick and Tim Potter’s Gargery and Jaggers.

Relative newcomer and recent RADA graduate Tom Canton’s portrayal of Pip displayed surprising versatility, capturing a wide range of ages and dialects with apparent ease.

Most of the female cast meanwhile verge almost on the pantomime in their physicality; a disappointing fact considering their calibre.

A slight disconnect in approach to staging and characterisation still results in an enjoyable yet somewhat laboured production.

Review by Laura Hounsom

Great Expectations is at the Bristol Old Vic until November 2. Visit www.bristololdvic.org.uk/greatexpectations.html for tickets and more information.