Bleak Expectations (NHB Modern Plays)

Based on the BBC Radio 4 series, Mark Evans' play Bleak Expectations is a hilarious, chaotic caper about half-orphan Pip Bin and his friends' attempts to escape Mr. Gently Benevolent and defeat the Hardthrasher siblings. The play features dastardly villains, preposterous names, pulse-quickening romances, heart-rending death scenes, and a happy ending. It offers rich opportunities for amateur theatre companies to transport audiences and beg for more.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

Half-orphan Pip Bin embarks on a remarkable journey alongside his sisters Pippa and Poppy, and his best friend Harry Biscuit. Their mission? To escape the cunning clutches of Mr. Gently Benevolent and defeat the relentless Hardthrasher siblings. Can they navigate disaster at every turn? Will goodness triumph over evil? Will love conquer hate?

Mark Evans' play "Bleak Expectations" is a hilarious, chaotic caper that brings to life the world of Charles Dickens. With dastardly villains, preposterous names, pulse-quickening romances, heart-rending death scenes, and, of course, a happy ending, it promises a delightful Dickensian romp for audiences.

Based on the award-winning BBC Radio 4 series, the play premiered at the Watermill Theatre in Newbury in 2022, directed by Caroline Leslie. It offers rich opportunities for amateur theatre companies seeking a gloriously daft Dickensian adventure that will transport audiences to a world of laughter and anticipation.

The play revolves around Pip Bin, a young orphan who is taken under the wing of Mr. Jaggers, a mysterious lawyer. As Pip grows up, he discovers that he has a mysterious benefactor, known only as "Mr. Pip," who has left him a considerable fortune. However, Pip soon learns that his benefactor has a dark secret, and his life takes a turn for the worse.

Alongside his sisters Pippa and Poppy, and his best friend Harry Biscuit, Pip embarks on a series of adventures that take him through the streets of London. He encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including the cruel Miss Havisham, the manipulative Estella, and the kind-hearted Joe Gargery.

As Pip navigates the treacherous world of social class and romance, he faces numerous challenges and obstacles. He must contend with the scheming Mr. Gently Benevolent, who seeks to exploit Pip's fortune for his own gain. He must also deal with the Hardthrasher siblings, who are determined to ruin Pip's life and claim his inheritance.

Through his journey, Pip learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and self-discovery. He discovers that true happiness comes not from material wealth or social status, but from the kindness and support of those around him.

"Bleak Expectations" is a testament to the enduring power of Charles Dickens' storytelling. It combines humor, drama, and heartache in a way that only Dickens can, and it leaves audiences begging for more. Whether you are a fan of Dickens or a newcomer to his work, this play is a must-see for anyone who loves a good laugh and a heartwarming tale.

In conclusion, "Bleak Expectations" is a hilarious, chaotic caper that brings the world of Charles Dickens to life. With its unforgettable characters, heart-rending plot, and uplifting message, it is a must-see for anyone who loves a good laugh and a heartwarming tale. Mark Evans' play offers rich opportunities for amateur theatre companies to bring Dickens' classic story to life and delight audiences with its daft and delightful charm.

Weight: 116g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839041105
Edition number: stage version