Unleashed bankers, wage-slavery and economic expoitation leading to environmental disaster, John Steinbeck’s seminal depression novel steps onto our stages with a resounding relevance for today, and this lavish touring production is worthy of the source material.

Beware of those handing out false promises

Their land left destitute from cash-crops, the Joad family head West under the false hopes of picking fruit in the glorious sunshine for a decent wage. Soon reality sets in, and the family struggles to stick together through starvation, fatigue and brutal attacks from the authorities.

Frank Galati’s faithful adaptation cuts to the heart of Steinbeck’s key themes, albeit a little too delicately for the stage (the first half is a perhaps too close to the languid pace of 30s rural life). Director Jonathan Church’s technically-proficient production brings it all to vividly to life, helped in no small part by Simon Higlett’s striking sets (projected onto which are crass period adverts that nicely counterpoint the action of the play), and a large ensemble cast which, a few dubious southern accents aside, are immersed in the era. Highlights include Sorcha Cusack, as the stoic Ma Joad, and Richard Kane‘s all-too-brief appearance as Grampa Joad. It’s a good way to enjoy a stirring story to which we should pay heed given the upcoming elections: beware of those handing out false promises, and fight back in solidarity.