A Clockwork Orange

A Clockwork Orange

Theatre Royal Stratford East - 13th September 2011

A Clockwork Orange is synonymous with controversy; from Burgess’s original novel in the sixties to Kubrick’s iconic film of the seventies. Any interpretation or adaptation of literature of this magnitude is going to have a challenge on its hands; yet what is achieved at the Theatre Royal Stratford East is a dynamic, vibrant and a surprisingly uplifting take on this modern classic. This little gem of a performance doesn't just resonate with the young east London audience, but plays on the consciousness of our modern society, making A Clockwork Orange more culturally relevant than ever and this production a must see.

Bought bang up-to-date through Dawn Reid's inspired direction, Alex, the articulate protagonist and his gang of Droogs burst onto the scene not wielding canes but adorning hoodies and belting out lyrics with an unnerving energy and excitement. Gang culture, the term that burdens the headlines of many tabloids, is immediately confronted in these opening moments. The intimate traverse staging thrusts the audience into this fast paced action wrought with male angst, as the journey of Alex, from thug, to government guinea pig, begins to unfold.

The unavoidable violence in A Clockwork Orange in this production is not graphic but cleverly portrayed through choreographed movement. Sequences of punches and cartoon-esque jabs were eerily punctuated by a live jazz band and clever song writing, creating a physical score as well as musical one. Heightened by the intimate setting, Alex’s wonderfully eloquent interactions were able to take precedence. Language is the heart and soul of this interpretation and it is through the power of the committed ensemble that this idea is explored.

The character of Alex uses words to exert power more so than he does through physical prowess; manipulating those around him with his sharp tongue and innate intelligence making for an engaging and likable rogue. The young Ashley Hunter shone, proving himself to be a charismatic and beautifully seductive protagonist, finding a softness that few could observe in this character.

The supporting ensemble provided an interesting parallel to Alex. Every figure of authority; the Doctor, the Priest, the Police, Alex’s dad, became caricatures of themselves. When juxtaposed with the articulate Alex they appeared to be figures of ridicule. This exemplified the distinct divide and lack of communication and commuity between youth and authority and to a post-riot London audience, this sentiment has never felt more significant.

True to the original text, the Ed Durantè adaptation of A Clockwork Orange ends in Alex’s redemption, although sickly sweet this ending did work in the context of this production. The endearing protagonist had such a likeable character that anything other than redemption wouldn't feel quite right, right, right, however the almost 'Disney' ending to this original dystopia did feel incongruous and all a bit too lovely for my liking.

Theatre Royal Stratford has always been a hub of excitement; it is a venue that is the heart of the community, actively engaging with its multi-cultural audience and youth following. A Clockwork Orange may have had a sugar coated ending but in the context of this venue it did not feel out of place for this is a theatre that prides itself on the positivity is exudes. There are few venues that continue to produce such thought provoking work for such an eclectic crowd; I only hope that the light that is this special venue will not be overshadowed by an Olympic torch when it comes to town.