Holy Trinity Church, Guildford – until 28th February 2026
Reviewed by Carly
5*****
Guildford Shakespeare Company brings you the story of David Copperfield adapted and directed by Abigail Pickard Price. A story that takes you through the stages of his life over the years and across many separate places of travel. The highs and the lows of relationships and friendships along the way, as well as ones lost. Finding love and experiencing hurt all shaping him into the man and author that he later becomes. This production was done exceptionally well, very quick paced with only three actors taking on nineteen roles all in total. Which was so much fun to watch, pure brilliance, exceptional energy and excitement throughout the whole show!
Eddy Payne who only plays the part of David Copperfield and does he fantastically well. Takes you through his whole story, starting from the very beginning as a newborn baby. He transformed himself into his role. He was authentic and provided an emotional experience throughout, drawing the audience in with his great acting skills as well as bringing much laughter to the show also.
Luke Barton who takes on nine separate roles, some including Peggotty, Mr Wickfield, Mr Dick and many more. Does this with pure brilliance and is just mesmerising to watch as he jumps from character to character upon the stage. His ability to memorize lines, switch voices and change his mannerisms in seconds as well as costume, was just exceptional he offered so much to the play and had the audience laughing on many occasions. Just done fantastically well and was such a pleasure to watch.
Louise Beresford who also takes on nine characters including David Copperfield’s mum, Miss Betsey, Emily and more makes the audience forget that they are watching the same person with her ability to transform entirely to a different role using great posture movement and voice throughout. Done flawlessly again with the seriousness needed for certain roles and bringing the laughs with the funnier roles just magical.
The stage was simple but highly effective. With small props achieving so much upon the platform bringing the whole story to life.
There were suitcases that turned into carriages for travel, chairs, stairs and even beds with the use of a blanket for a fuller effect. Storages chests were also very cleverly used for hiding props, making them easy to access. The chests were also used for rocks on the sea, being jumped across by the actors on the stage and material of blue being unravelled from a dress to mimic the waves. A small boat being held in the air to look at in the distance. The simplicity of a paper kite on wire being flown in the air. The use of clever signs to keep the audience grounded as to where the story was, due to its fast pace. This was a very well though out stage, simplistic but offered so much detail and description throughout.
This production was a pleasure to watch what a great storyline, exceptional acting throughout was exciting and funny a great evening out and one not to miss.
The setting was a beautiful Church which gave the whole production an amazing feel. The staff were also lovely, welcoming, and there to help making the evening one to remember.