Review: Worcester Rep’s Northanger Abbey at The Commandery, Worcester
We have been to several productions by the Worcester Rep, and have really enjoyed every one of them, so were very much looking forward to seeing their adaptation of Jane Austen’s romance Northanger Abbey, being performed as an outdoor theatre show, in the atmospheric gardens of the Commandery in Worcester.
Summers now wouldn’t feel complete without us packing our picnic and heading out for our annual outing to see Worcester Rep’s latest production. I always worry slightly that we may be disappointed, as last years show was the best ever, and perhaps this one may not be quite that good. Yet despite the incredibly high bar set by Worcester Rep’s previous productions, this years performance had us laughing more often and more loudly, and enjoying it all even more than the previous shows! 
Set partly in Regency Bath and partly at Northanger Abbey in rural Gloucestershire, the simple stage backdrop and minimal props direct the audience to focus purely on the five-strong cast, who were utterly amazing with their energy, charm, wit, and perfect comic timing. When a small cast of actors cover so many characters I always feel it’s a true test of skill, and once again the Worcester Rep actors dazzled! Paul Milton’s adaptation of Northanger Abbey captures Austen’s wit, romance and gentle satire perfectly, and the well written written script enabled the actors to bring it all to life brilliantly.
Charlie Fraser-Swarbrick is utterly engaging as the imaginative Catherine Morland, perfectly conveying her youthful innocence and overactive imagination. The chemistry between Catherine and Henry Tilney (played by Nate Harter) is delightful, while the supporting cast (Alexandra Whitworth, Julia Bentley and George Ormerod) relish every opportunity for comedy, delivering funny quips with quick costume changes and clever physical humour, keeping the audience laughing throughout. Every actor successfully bought each character to life, with a huge range of mannerisms, quirks and personalities.
One of Worcester Rep’s great strengths is its ability to tell classic stories with creativity, humour and a sense of fun, and Northanger Abbey is no exception. Whether you’re already a Jane Austen fan or completely new to her work, this production is engaging, funny and thoroughly entertaining. It is perfect for children who enjoy classics of this era, or those of an age to. This production may well spark a passion for Austen’s work among a whole new generation!
While this may not be one to take younger children to see, it’s a REALLY great evening out for parents who want to relax in the evening sun, soaking in the most atmospheric setting, while enjoying the very best entertainment you could imagine. We absolutely loved it!
Worcester Rep’s Northanger Abbey is playing at The Commandery until Sunday 26th July. Book your tickets here.
Photos courtesy of F8 Creates.
