Leeds Grand Theatre – until Saturday 23 May 2026
Reviewed by Sal E Marino
5*****
At Leeds Grand Theatre, The Shawshank Redemption proves exactly why Stephen King’s novella remains one of the most beloved and emotionally resonant stories ever written. Adapted faithfully for the stage by Owen O’Neill and David Johns, and directed with gripping intensity by David Esbjornson, this production captures both the brutality and hope that define the original story.
At the heart of the play is the brilliant narration of Ellis “Red” Redding, portrayed magnificently by the outstanding Ben Onwukwe. Red becomes the audience’s guide through the dark and unforgiving world of Shawshank Prison, weaving together Andy Dufresne’s extraordinary journey with warmth, wisdom and heart-breaking honesty. Despite the terrible crime Red committed years before, he is a character the audience instinctively trusts. Much like Andy himself, you desperately want Red to survive, endure and somehow escape the crushing existence prison has forced upon him.
Joe McFadden delivers an interesting performance as Andy Dufresne, very different to the film’s Tom Robbins but, still one that evokes much emotion charting his transformation from frightened new inmate to a man driven by intelligence, resilience and an unbreakable sense of purpose. Without revealing too much, the story follows Andy’s harrowing prison journey — from his arrival at Shawshank and the brutal treatment he suffers, through years of unimaginable hardship, to his spectacular and deeply satisfying escape. Through Red’s narration and the powerful scenes on stage, we witness how Andy’s quiet determination and secret ambition to one day break free become the very things that allow him to endure a living hell. His intelligence not only helps him survive, but ultimately exposes and destroys some of the corrupt figures who abused their power, particularly the ruthless warden.
The supporting cast are equally outstanding, embodying characters that range from tragic and sympathetic to utterly deplorable. Kenneth Jay is deeply moving as the tragic Brooksie, while Bill Ward portrays Warden Stammas with chilling authority and hypocrisy. Sean Kingsley delivers a genuinely heinous performance as Bogs Diamond, alongside strong performances from Ashley D Gayle as the odious Rooster, Samarge Hamilton as Rico and Kyle Harrison-Pope as Tommy Williams. Every actor brings raw emotional truth to the stage, making the prison feel claustrophobic, dangerous and painfully real. Kudos must also be shared with the creative team: designer Gary McCann, lighting from Chris Davey, Sound by Andy Graham and fight directing by Alison De Burgh.
What makes this adaptation so powerful is that beneath all the violence and despair lies a story about hope, friendship and redemption. As Red memorably says, Andy is “a bird who shouldn’t have been caged.” Yet by the play’s end, Red discovers that neither should he. Through Andy’s influence, he finds the courage to give himself a second chance at life and finally pursue his own dream of freedom.
This production of The Shawshank Redemption is gripping, emotional and utterly unforgettable theatre — a faithful adaptation that honours Stephen King’s original work while delivering performances of remarkable depth and humanity.