Written by Cathie for Theatre and Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review. All views are our own

Shimmering brightly in the Georgian Hampstead Mansions lies John Keats’ House museum. As part of the Hampstead Summer festival, Moving Parts has created a brilliant adaptation of Northanger Abbey, Jane Austen’s approach to a gothic novel.

The storyline is a comedic satire of the gothic genre as experienced in Austen’s time, and the themes of familial expectations, devious acquaintances, and the clash between imagination and reality are brilliantly extrapolated onto the stage. The staging is reminiscent of a library and podium. This works well to represent both the pump room, Northanger Abbey, and the carriages used throughout the story. Although there are few props, the charming onstage acting works well at filling in the blanks.

Director Simona Hughes and writers Joanna Nevin and Martin South have created a masterful adaptation of Austen’s novel. The cast is fantastic and have wonderful chemistry together. Anna Blackburn shines as naive Catherine and blends the character’s innocence and comedic timing well. Dominic Bryant is a perfect example of yearning in male leads and has exceptional chemistry with Blackburn, which really sells the two characters’ romance together. Sebastian Kaith was sincere, witty and created deeply nuanced characters throughout. Andy Canadine is hilarious as multiple characters and brilliantly portrays each in a unique form. Anais Tran Ngoc played beautifully atmospheric violin compositions throughout.

The splitting of the plot into two one-hour acts works well to frame the story without being overwhelming and keeping the closely adapted story as tautly paced as possible. The ending of the novel is condensed slightly in this play but it works to create a more satisfying and romantic ending. This is an exceptionally hilarious night out and brings the cheeky joy and subtle but beautifully honed wit of Austen to light in a fantastic form.

This is a brilliantly fun evening out and a perfect escape from the horrendous heatwave of this week. If you enjoy imaginative theatre, passionate actors and a highly enjoyable adaptation of Austen, then this is the show for you.

Northanger Abbey is embarking on a National tour until 9 August. For further information on where you can see the show and book your tickets, visit the Moving Parts Theatre Company website.

★★★★

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