Of Mice And Men – Hull Truck Theatre

John Steinbeck’s novella, Of Mice And Men, very nearly never saw the light of day, as the first draft was eaten by his dog, Toby.

Thankfully, the American writer persevered and since its first performance on Broadway in 1937, his work continues to entertain theatregoers around the world.

On Thursday night I was privileged to watch a stellar cast of actors bring Of Mice And Men to life on the stage of the Hull Truck Theatre.

This cosy theatre never fails to come up trumps where imaginative stage settings are concerned, and Thursday was no exception, thanks to set designer Jess Curtis (who also designed the costumes).

There was no raised stage to speak of, just a small step-up at the rear. The floor comprised of wooden slats, as did the entire wall at the back which opened to reveal doors and windows.

Scenery was also kept to a minimum – beds, barrels to sit on, straw bales, small shelves, and so on – all depicting a working ranch in 1930s California.

The story centres around two drifters, the mentally-challenged Lenny (William Young) and quick-witted George (Liam King), bound together by a long-standing friendship – a friendship that often sees George become impatient with the child-like Lenny.

The two share a dream of owning their own land and being their own bosses.

Though not very bright, big, strong Lenny is perfectly cut out for heavy-lifting work on a ranch, but his great strength is maybe a hindrance, especially when it comes to his love of cuddling mice and puppies. 

The ranch owner, The Boss (John Elkington) at first suspicious of the duo, accepts them, as do the other workers with whom they share a bunk house.

There’s no-nonsense Carlson (Tom Fletcher), lively Whit (Afton Moran), calm Slim (Laurence Pears), and Candy (Benjamin Wilson), blinded in an accident on the ranch.

Sadly, racial segregation was rife at this time, meaning one ranch hand was not allowed to bunk down with the others, due to his colour. The plight of Crooks (Jeff Alexander) was simply accepted by his workmates.

Completing this talented cast is the boss’s son, Curley (Stefan Race) and his bride, usually referred to as “tart” (Emma Charlton).

The steady, and heady, hypnotic drumming at the start begat a feeling of tension which just grew and grew as the night wore on, leading to unforgettable events.

There were no dual roles for the cast; they were in their characters for the duration, which meant we could easily connect with them from the start. And all the cast wore head mics which meant every word uttered was loud and clear.

Living in such close proximity with each other, personalities were bound to clash which they did regularly. And the presence of Curley’s young wife, being the only female on the ranch, raised its own set of problems – for the ranch hands and for the jealous and suspicious Curley, who had a nasty streak anyway.

Carlson, apart from Curley, is probably the most aggressive of the bunch; an aggression aimed at the blind Candy’s “old, stinking” dog.

The tall Slim has a kinder side, while the young, energetic Whit seems to happily sail through the days.

Crooks, eventually reveals his feelings at being segregated, when his “prison” complete with manure heap under his window, is paid a never-happened-before visit by a fellow worker.

All these interesting snippets didn’t overshadow the main thread of the story – that of George and Lenny and their dreams for a brighter future.

George lives in a state of constant panic, always fearful that his pal’s behaviour will harm their chances of anyone employing them, and that Lenny’s unchecked, killer strength would bring their plans crashing down around their ears. As the poet Robert Burns put it – “The best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men/Gang aft agley” (The best-laid plans of mice and men/Often go awry); a poem that inspired the title of Steinbeck’s play.

I couldn’t fault a thing about this production, wonderfully directed by Sarah Brigham. The acting was more than superb. Movements were slow and steady in the main, while short silences abounded. But it was the tension created by an amazing cast on the often dimly-lit stage that kept us in the packed theatre on the edge of our seats. Bravo to all concerned.

Of Mice and Men is at Hull Truck Theatre until 22nd March. Tickets are on sale from (01482) 323638 or www.hulltruck.co.uk Recommended age 13+

Reviewer: Jackie Foottit

Reviewed: 6th March 2025

North West End UK Rating: