To Kill a Mockingbird, Barbican Theatre ****

With sequel 'Go Set a Watchman' out in book shops, the time is perfect to revisit the much beloved gem of Harper Lee about life in the Deep South. This book, much like Ah Wilderness at the Young Vic, creates this warm, homely feeling yet achieved the impossible by addressing the issues of racism and naive childhood. This production captures this feeling and more. As well as telling Lee's story well, it captures the brilliance and beauty of reading. Watching this ensemble taking it in turn to read from the book, it reminded me of when my father used to read to me and the excitement that caused each evening. It explores the idea of how reading can create a picture in your mind and that, by switching between British and American accents, shows that you can be transported to a different world through books. Sheader's production uses a Brechtian style that, unlike Findlay's Merchant, is effective in creating this idea of an image being created through story telling. Jon Bausor's design strikes a balance between minimalistic and cheap very well and Phil King's music gives a nice atmosphere to the piece. The three actors playing Dill, Jem and Scout were extraordinary. For those children to be as talented as they are is brilliant to see. They steal the show with fully three dimensional characters and brilliant stage presence. They are surrounded by a capable ensemble who tell the story well. Robert Sean Leonard's Atticus is delightful to watch. This is probably the last image of Atticus I will have before it being altered by Lee's sequel and I was glad for it to be as faithful to the book as possible. Whilst I'm not sure the stage in no way beats the experience of reading this classic, it captures the heart and emotion of Lee's writing to create a fulfilling and wonderful experience.