Georgia May Foote – photo from Norwich Theatre Royal

Our student guest reviewer Ellie Foulger saw Breakfast at Tiffany’s at Norwich Theatre Royal

 

Richard Greenberg’s adaptation of Breakfast at Tiffany’s was brought to life at Norwich Theatre Royal with a truly remarkable performance.
The famous film we all know and love was brought to our eyes in the heart of Norwich. The play impressively recreated all the lovable and nostalgic moments which we remember from the original film starring Audrey Hepburn.
Based on Truman Capote’s 1958 novella, the story sets out of a man called ‘Fred’ played in this production by the wonderful Matt Barber finding his way through New York city in the 1960s, dreaming of becoming a famous writer one day. He then meets close neighbour ‘Holly Golightly’ played by the outstanding Georgia May Foote and his life was up and down from there.
Georgia May Foote had a lot to live up to after the amazing film starring Audrey Hepburn, but she did not disappoint. Her naïve character and distinctive charm made the role original but also have the amazing qualities we saw from Audrey. Her accent was stunning and flowing and made me feel as if I was in 1960s New York. Her singing topped it all off as she blew Norwich away with a smooth and hushed tone to her voice. Such a talent. Matt Barber playing Fred did also not disappoint. As a narrator he held the story line together and showed maturity and intelligence throughout the show.
The set got me hooked from the first moment as a glowing frame with Holly (Georgia) acting in the middle showing her vain and outgoing character. This smoothly transitioned into Fred’s room and from this the set and staging was very slick and told the story just as much as the acting. The set consisted of three doors to show the different flats which was extremely effective. This made the play easier to read and follow. The lighting used to portray rain and different types of weather was ever so effective as it created a realistic feeling that they were in that situation. The use of foreshadowing using darker themes when Fred was sad and brighter colours when he was happy once again added that extra touch of maturity. This once again made the play easier to understand.
Overall I can happily say with no hesitation that this was one of the most lovable and memorable plays I have ever got to see. It was flawless and made 1960s New York come to life in Norwich. The wonderful cast, set, band and the original book truly brought ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ to life at the Theatre Royal.

Listing:
Breakfast At Tiffany’s, Monday 14-Saturday 19 November at 7.30pm, and Wednesday and Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets £8-£32.50. Discounts for Friends, Corporate Club, Over-60s, Under-18s, and Groups. Audio-described performance on Saturday 19 November at 2.30pm.
To book, log onto www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000.