The Shawshank Redemption is a based on Stephen Kings 1982 novella, set in a maximum-security penitentiary. It spans over 20 years and follows the inmates stories, primarily focusing on our main character Andy. Joe McFadden plays him in such a genuine, real manner, you can’t help but sympathise and root for him. His chemistry with the mesmerising Ben Onwuke as Ellis ‘Red’ is gripping to watch. Red being the audience’s narrator and having the most dialogue, including several long monologues, still managed to capture the attention of the audience and keep them hooked. There were a few times he made the audience laugh out loud, including a scene where Andy informs Red how much money is waiting for him on the other side, which was a nice break from the heavy going moments.
Coronation star Bill Ward plays the unlikeable and controlling Warden Stammas, but does a brilliant job at immersing us into the story too.
I could go on and on about each of the actor’s performances as I found myself truly in the moment and absorbing the story like a sponge. Kenneth Jay will be my last mention as his last scene in the show was deeply moving and portrayed the lasting effect prison has on its inmates and what life outside looks like for characters like him.
The transitions with the different eras of music spanning the decades made it apparent that time was passing in between scenes. Backed by well known songs such as ‘Beyond the Sea’ and ‘Twist and Shout’, Andy Graham as Sound Designer does a great job. Including of course background noise such as the sounds of water dripping in the background to really highlight the emptiness of the cells to help paint the scene more effectively.
Designer Gary McCann ensures to have sets that work well on stage and be practical too. The most iconic moment of course being the Rita Hayworth poster being ripped off Andy’s cell wall by the Warden when he can’t be found, which gets a knowing laugh from the audience at the Warden’s distress.
All in all of it was already clear by my high praise of the cast, this was an absolutely brilliant film to stage adaptation that deserves the standing ovation at the end. Despite some heavy hitting themes and mature content, there was also the theme of hope and friendship at the end of the story.
Bravo to the cast and crew and director David Esbjormson to ensuring it translated well onto the stage. Fans of the 1994 feature movie are bound to enjoy this but would recommend for 12 years plus due to the themes of the show, such as violence, scenes of a sexual nature.
The Shawshank Redemption runs until Saturday 4th April at Playhouse, Liverpool before continuing its UK tour, with tickets available at: https://everymanplayhouse.com/event/the-shawshank-redemption/
Reviewer: Emma Lambe
Reviewed: 31st March 2026
North West End UK Rating:
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