Swan Theatre RSC – until 10th January 2026
Reviewed by Amarjeet Singh
5*****
John Galsworthy’s epic chronicle, The Forsyte Saga is about an illustrious family’s development over four decades. A monumental narrative that defines an era, Galsworthy’s tale, is brought to the RSC stage by Shaun McKenna and Lin Cochlan, under the incredible direction of Josh Roche. This stark yet captivating production concentrates on compelling characterisation as it delves into ill-fated relationships, doomed passion, and the corrosive effects of greed, possession and entitlement across the generations. Compressing multiple storylines into a two-play, five-hour adaptation, Part 1 Irene and Part 2 Fleur make for compelling viewing. A young Fleur Forsyte serves as the narrator for both parts, leading us through the unfolding drama with a retrospective lens. Her account of harrowing events is delivered with sharp wit and is perfectly paced,
Maintaining minimalist staging, set & costume designer Anna Yates provides opulent and impressive period costumes, a red-carpeted stage and velvet curtains for the Victorian era. This is later stripped back, losing the colourful costumes, the curtains and leaving an exposed bare brick wall to denote modernity. Chairs serve multiple purposes, most memorably transforming into a boat during Michael Mont’s awkward attempt to woo Fleur. They also differentiate indoors and out, with grand chairs for living quarters and deck chairs for the garden. Alex Musgrave’s lighting design is nothing short of sorcery. Combined with a sensational soundscape by Max Pappenheim they create worlds which only exist in our minds. Spotlights, washes, shadows all illuminate and elevate the saga. We are outdoors with bright glows and birdsong which fade into night with shadows and crickets. We see rearing horses in smoke, solemn silhouettes and blackouts when the horrors are too much.
The company is magnificent with every performance impeccable. Joseph Millson delivers a masterful portrayal of Soames Forsyte, capturing the rigid pride and cruelty of a man convinced his wealth and status grant him control, while revealing the vulnerability of a person unable to express emotion and haunted by his past. Fiona Hampton depicts Irene with poise and dignity, subtly revealing suppressed intelligence and desire constrained by societal and familial expectations. Flora Spencer-Longhurst’s Fleur Forsyte is an intelligent engaging and entertaining narrator. Elegant and perceptive, she is ultimately fractured by circumstances beyond her comprehension. Millson, Hampton, and Spencer-Longhurst remain in their principal roles, while the rest of the cast transition seamlessly between characters with remarkable versatility. Florence Roberts excels in multiple roles, most notably as June Forsythe. She demonstrates an astonishing command of accents. Jamie Wilkes delivers an engaging and endearing performance as young Jo Forsyte and Michael Mont, whilst Andy Rush brings a bold and dynamic presentation of Philip Bosinney and Cousin Jon.
With its stellar cast and clever creatives, this rendition of The Forsyte Saga, is a profoundly thrilling triumph. To truly experience its magic, I recommend seeing Irene then Fleur, in one sitting. While each section stands independent, the narrative is best experienced all at once. The short break between parts enhances anticipation and deepens emotional investment which amplifies the impact of the finale.