STORYHOUSE, CHESTER – UNTIL SATURDAY 6TH JUNE 2026
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
4****
Attending the press night of Mrs Dalloway at Storyhouse was a captivating and surprisingly immersive experience, especially for someone like me who is not familiar with Virginia Woolf’s original novel. From the moment the audience began to take their seats, it was evident that this would not be a conventional production. Kit Green, tall, poised, and elegantly dressed, mingled among the audience in character, warmly greeting attendees and creating an atmosphere that felt more like an intimate social gathering than a traditional performance.
As the lights remained dimmed, Green stepped onto the stage, introducing herself as Clarissa Dalloway and swiftly immersing the audience in her narrative. The set design, although seemingly straightforward, proved to be highly effective; three large panels, which appeared to be green drapes, were unveiled as screens. In one corner stood a black piano, while the opposite side featured a solitary chair with a book and glasses. This minimalist staging ensured that the emphasis remained squarely on the storytelling and the performances.
This new adaptation features a solo performance that combines live acting with film and visual design. Director Jen Heyes refers to it as “cine-theatre,” a blend of film and live performance. This integration is executed seamlessly on stage, enriching the narrative rather than detracting from it.
The play, inspired by Woolf’s 1925 novel, unfolds over a single day in London during 1923, focusing on Clarissa as she prepares for an evening party while contemplating her past. Her narrative is intertwined with that of a war veteran grappling with the psychological scars of World War One, creating a poignant contrast between external social poise and internal conflict. This duality is portrayed with sensitivity and clarity, making the themes approachable even for those unfamiliar with the original material.
Green’s performance was particularly captivating as she effortlessly balanced charm and vulnerability. She held the audience’s attention throughout, skillfully guiding them through Clarissa’s memories and emotions with subtle shifts in tone and presence. During transitions between narrative threads, Green adeptly maintained the flow by inviting the audience to consent to “plunge into the heart of the moment,” a device that felt both playful and disarming. Each new thread was clearly introduced, ensuring the tone remained light and accessible, while she frequently engaged with the audience. At one point, she even invited four audience members on stage to enjoy a playful round of “What time is it, Virginia Woolf?”, which added an unexpected and memorable layer of interaction.
Overall, Mrs Dalloway at Storyhouse is a thoughtful and innovative adaptation that warmly and intelligently welcomes audiences into its world. This production merits attention and contemplation, leaving viewers uplifted and thoroughly enchanted by its originality and charm.