We take a look at what is being said about this stage adaptation of Ian McEwan’s novel, playing at the theatre until the 20th June.
The Guardian: “Explorations of truth and the consolations of make-believe seem subsumed by plot – and there is a lot of story to get through. So this production seems like a love story without a heartbeat and a synthesis of McEwan’s book, albeit a beautiful one at that.”
All That Dazzles: “Ultimately, Atonement is an often gripping drama that provides an entertaining evening while falling just short of excellence in a few key areas. I’m sure the play will appeal to devoted fans of Ian McEwan’s work, and I would say fans of the book/show Rivals will also find it appealing. Though it occasionally leans too heavily into soap-opera territory for my taste, if high drama and scandal are your cup of tea, this will surely be an enjoyable night for you.”
Theatre & Tonic: “Hampton’s writing drives the epic narrative forward in a clear comprehensible style. It is not his best work, but it is compelling and entertaining. The performances are never less than adept, though the writing style restricts any displays of passion or more than skin deep temperament.”
The Stage: “Ian McEwan’s tale of love, lust and lies loses its bite in this stage adaptation.”
Jonathan Baz Reviews: “Atonement as a narrative depends upon a classy design brief, with Chichester veteran Anthony Ward delivering exquisite settings and costumes. A combination of practical ingenuity and slick projections transfer the action across southern England and war-torn northern France, while the costuming, notably Cecilia’s stunning green dress, critical to a focal point of the story, is outstanding.”
London Theatre 1: “Atonement is an extremely powerful piece that delivers a few punches and captures the reality of World War Two extremely well. It is set to become one to watch due to everyone involved and the writing, especially, is what makes it come to life.”
British Theatre Guide: “A remarkable production and totally engrossing as we follow all the characters through their lives, living with them. A tribute to the excellent cast who make us almost believe it is real, but the one who really had me fighting back the tears gave the speech at the end. Jessica Turner, who took on the role at the last minute as the older Briony, now a very rich and successful author, recalling her life and regrets and remembering—just remembering!”
WhatsOnStage: “There are handsome moments. Performances are committed and the iconic green dress looks spectacular on Petche. There is some nice underscoring from Alexandra Faye Braithwaite that attempts to shift the pacing dial, but the lack of action and feeling alongside the inert script leave this feeling rather lacklustre and passionless.”
The Telegraph: “Chichester Festival Theatre’s adaptation of the bestseller boasts some promising stars, but lacks the necessary detail.”
SusanElkin.co.uk: “Anthony Ward’s designs work quite well with a spiral staircase suggesting access to more intimate things than the formal dining room or the garden. Cecilia’s wartime billet in Battersea is convincing too. Meanwhile Andrzej Goulding’s video projection evokes various settings including the retreat to Dunkirk – scenes which are in some ways the most powerful in the play as the men banter in terror and accept help from two Frenchmen.”
West End Best Friend: “We are asked to believe that Briony develops into a writer later on in life, the author of the book Atonement, and that if her first play in 1935, The Trials of Arabella, had been staged by Lola and her two brothers, instead of in 1999, the outcome of events in 1935 might have been different. Her message then was “love is all very well, but you have to be sensible”. We can see the tragic consequences of her infatuation and imagination and the irreversible consequences of her lie, and we ought to have sympathy for her regret and seeking of atonement at the end of her life, but the adaptation and staging left us detached, uncaring and still trying to piece together the story at the end.”
To book tickets visit: https://www.cft.org.uk/events/atonement