In my experience, not many plays manage to grip your attention completely from the very first scene. However, Wuthering Heights does exactly just that. Truly outstanding, it has to be one of the best shows I have seen in recent years.
In this classic by Emily Brontë, the Yorkshire moors tell an epic story of love, revenge and redemption.
The play explores in-depth issues such as family relations and love, having the right balance of drama and humour. It is really well-written and is funny and poetic at the same time.
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In their roles as Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, Lucy McCormick and Ash Hunter are fantastic and acting throughout the show in general is of a very high standard. The impressive singing was another highlight for me as music is used well throughout to add to the narrative.
As usual for shows at the Bristol Old Vic, the scenography was perfect. The stage was beautifully decorated and a great attention to detail could be seen throughout, from the costumes to the props.
Not being a native English speaker, Wuthering Heights has always felt a bit daunting and I remember trying to read the novel as a teenager with average English language skills and having to give up. However, Emma Rice's adaptation of the iconic novel is truly accessible and easy to follow.
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What is more, my partner feared Wuthering Heights would be a romantically pompous, boring play - instead, he left the theatre full of praises. And, despite being three hours long, time flew and the show didn't feel slow at any point as it naturally flowed.
I hadn't been to the Bristol Old Vic since before the pandemic, having watched Faustus: That Damned Woman just before the first lockdown was announced. I loved that play and it set the bar high - Wuthering Heights not only did it not disappoint, but it was truly impressive.
I found the play to be cathartic and left the Old Vic feeling re-energised: what a wonderful way to welcome you back to the theatre. I would say do not hesitate to get a ticket for this spectacular show - you will not regret it.
Wuthering Heights is at the Bristol Old Vic until Saturday, November 6. The play is three hours long with a 15-minute interval, and tickets start at £8.
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