Famous Last Words Presents Miss Julie ~ Theatre Review

[Theatre - SA] Goodwood Theatre and Studio, Fri 21 Apr, 2023 Miss Julie was originally written by Swedish playwright August Strindberg in the late 19th century. Famous Last Words Theatre has adapted the play for contemporary audiences and it works seamlessly. The scene playing out on the couch as the audience files in is a great little cameo all to itself, and also provides clues about what’s to follow: two good friends swapping stories and selfies and making sure the other is looking and feeling good. As the play proper begins it's apparent that Julie's friend Christine is the one doing all the heavy lifting. Miss Julie needs constant reassurance that she looks hot. Despite, or perhaps because of her upbringing of wealth and privilege, Julie is a fragile soul who has little self-esteem and is a high maintenance friend. She's in need of excitement and action and when her friend goes to bed early she zeroes in on Jean, Christine’s boyfriend. He now becomes the one Julie needs to validate her existence. Jean however comes from a different class where integrity and respect are earned, not inherited. Julie tests his righteousness to the max and he appears to fall fully under her spell. Whether or not these two can bridge the gap between their values or the gaping chasm between their respective upbringings is the central issue of Miss Julie. It's a thoroughly entertaining and plausible scenario for a contemporary audience. Kate Owen is wonderful as Miss Julie. Her ability to portray a roller coaster range of emotions is really impressive. Emilia Williams as Christine is ever so understanding and tolerant of her friend's self-obsession,  and Christian Bartlett as Jean is convincing as the hapless male, in turn decisive and dithering as he struggles to resist Julie's bewitching charms. It was a great idea to use the stage area of the theatre as both performance space and auditorium: it brings an intimacy that inevitably has the audience more emotionally involved. Ambitious and innovative contemporary theatre that is well worth seeing. Directed by James Watson. 4 stars Miss Julie continues at the Goodwood Theatre and Studio  at various times until Sat 29 April. Click HERE to purchase your tickets. Michael Coghlan #TheClothesline