Grated Expectations describes itself as “an original new comedy,” and whilst this is certainly an original and interesting concept, highlighting a clear obsession with Charles Dickens, there’s little to laugh at. The show took the audience into the mind of the mentally disturbed Timothy, who has a fixation with Dickens’ work. The play moves between reality and Timothy’s imagination, where he plays and acts out excerpts from Dickens’ stories in his mind. All three actors play a variety of roles fantastically well and the range of characters, accents and attitudes is skilfully executed. But the story needed more clarification and refinement; and despite an interesting idea, overall ‘Grated Expectations’ did not achieve greatness.

theSpace on North Bridge, until 10 Aug, 11.35am.
tw rating 3/5 | [Sarah Virgo]