SHAWSHANK Redemption is one of the greatest films ever made so I was full of anticipation to see how the story played out on the stage.

The stage adaptation produced by Bill Kenwright, directed by David Esbjornson and adapted for the theatre by Owen O’Neill and Dave Johns from Stephen King’s novel Is being performed at the Hall for Cornwall until Saturday, September 20.

For those who have not seen the film or read the book The Shawshank Redemption is about a banker named Andy Dufresne who is wrongfully sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife and her lover. He befriends fellow inmate Ellis "Red" Redding and quietly schemes his escape from the corrupt and brutal institution.

The show's strong cast and effective set design help to translate the beloved story to the stage. As the lights dimmed and the curtain lifted, the cold grey walls of Shawshank came alive, creating the bleak and claustrophobic feeling of prison life.

Ben Onwukwe, who played the role of Red, and Joe McFadden, who stars as Andy Duffresne, made the roles their own rather than merely imitating the film versions.

Onwukwe brought an air of authority to the role, and his narration grounded the story in humour and humanity. McFadden’s portrayal of the intelligent banker was believable while Bill Ward’s warden Stammas, the villain of the piece, brought a chilling authority to the stage. One of the highlights was Kenneth Jay’s portrayal of Brooksie for his ability to balance the character's gentle, humorous side with his tragic fate.

Fans of the film will not be disappointed with the stage adaptation. The audience was absolutely spellbound throughout and were left with an uplifting feeling of human resilience as the story powerfully portrays the triumph of hope, friendship, and perseverance over decades of imprisonment and adversity.