Reviving his critically acclaimed Broadway production of The Glass Menagerie, John Tiffany turns his eyes away from the successes of his most recent west end production in turn of the Edinburgh International Festival. Imploring the stunning design of Bob Crowley and emotive moment direction of Steven Hoggett's, Tiffany’s heart-wrenching production invites you to share in the memory.
From the depths of Tom Wingfield’s (Michael Esper) memory, the life and demise of his interfamily relationships crumble before us. His mother, Amanda (Cherry Jones), attentive yet absorbed by the past she once thrived in and his sister lost within her own defects unable to get out. Crowded into the one living space, the marvel of Tennessee William’s grasp of the human psyche unfolds when a Tom arranges for a gentleman caller to come for dinner.
Although renowned in the United States, the name Cherry Jones does not litter households across Britain, but without good reason. Jones’ portrayal of aging southern belle, Amanda Wingfield, is a rooted, sentimental depiction of a woman in search of a better and former life. Eloquent in delivery, both in Steven Hoggett’s movement and in the delivery of William’s often lengthy passages, Jones’ offer an exceptionally memorable performance.
Entering through her elder brother’s recollection, and unconventionally through the sofa, Kate O’Flynn’s touching performance of the “crippled” Laura appropriates sympathy and pity throughout, complimenting Michael Esper’s often cold Tom.
A droplet in the darkness of the mind, world and stage, the intimate and dreamlike vision of 1930s St. Louis depicted in Crowley’s design beautifully compliments the often illusive direction of Hoggett and Tiffany, resulting in a profound visual of William’s iconic writing.
Times: 7-20 (Not 9 & 16)Aug: 7.30pm
11,13,17,19 Aug: 2.30pm
21 Aug: 1pm & 6pm
Tickets: £12 - £38