THE MAYOR OF CASTERBRIDGE  

(Minimum cast 3f 3m - Maximum cast 20)

Forest Forge Theatre Company/Salisbury Playhouse 1998, Wessex Actors 2005

Thomas Hardy's powerful tale of fate, power and the great Victorian myth of "getting on" tells the gripping story of the dynamic Michael Henchard, a journeyman hay-trusser who, through sheer force of will, works his way up, breaking free of a bad marriage and alcoholic despondency, to become a prosperous businessman and the Mayor of Casterbridge. Ultimately though, Henchard finds he is unable to escape his past, and, driven by his nature, he commits a number of impulsive deeds that must surely bring disastrous results.

Philip Goulding's script has quite extraordinary clarity. (The Guardian)

A gripping saga. (The Independent)

Philip Goulding's adaptation nicely follows the curve of the fortunes of Michael Henchard. (Financial Times)

This excellent adaptation. (Bournemouth Echo)

A work of quality. (Salisbury Journal)

Excellent production...fine adaptation. (Southern Echo)

Moving and masterly. (Dorchester Guardian)