Bird Grove Review: A Touching Exploration of George Eliot's Early Life
Elizabeth Dulau, acclaimed for her role in Andor, delivers a fine and nuanced performance in Bird Grove, a heartfelt drama that delves into the complex relationship between the young Mary Ann Evans – later known as the literary giant George Eliot – and her father, Robert Evans. This production at Hampstead Theatre in Swiss Cottage, running from February 24 to March 21, 2026, offers a sensitive portrayal of familial bonds and societal constraints in 1840s Coventry.
The Central Conflict and Character Dynamics
Written by Alexi Kaye Campbell, Bird Grove centers on Mary Ann, a brilliant and unconventional woman portrayed with sweetness and earnestness by Dulau. Her father, Robert, played by Owen Teale, is a gruff yet caring widower who invests in the titular fashionable home to secure his daughter's future in a society where independent women were scarcely recognized. Teale's performance captures a man motivated not by blind tradition but by a genuine fear for Mary Ann's vulnerability without his protection.
The play's core tension arises when Mary Ann courageously confesses her loss of religious faith and refusal to attend church, sparking a clash with her father. Campbell's writing avoids melodrama, instead emphasizing empathy and the deep love between them. Mary Ann's stance is not one of rebellion but of integrity, driven by a desire to avoid hypocrisy, while Robert's concerns stem from his understanding of a harsh world.
Performances and Production Highlights
Dulau, in her first lead theatre role since rising to fame with Andor, showcases her range beyond screen acting. Her portrayal of Mary Ann is enthusiastic and unguarded, reflecting a progressive spirit born from intelligence and earnest observation. This role contrasts with her Andor character, Kleya, yet both explore intricate father-daughter dynamics, highlighting Dulau's skill in depicting troubled relationships.
Teale complements her with a stern but nurturing presence, ensuring their chemistry feels authentic and moving. The supporting cast, including Jonnie Broadbent as the amusingly pathetic suitor Horace, adds depth to the period setting. Director Anna Ledwich provides a serviceable, trundling production that effectively evokes the era without overshadowing the play's emotional core.
Themes and Overall Impression
Bird Grove navigates an ironic undercurrent: a play about a woman fighting for a voice in a male-dominated society, penned by a male playwright. While some lines may feel awkward, Campbell largely succeeds by focusing on the universal theme of parental love. The drama avoids grand radical statements, instead offering a sweet and rare depiction of a loving father-daughter bond.
Fans of stately period dramas with a feminist twinkle will find much to appreciate. It's not an earthshaking show, but its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Dulau and Teale, make it a worthwhile theatrical experience. The play runs for 2 hours and 40 minutes, with tickets priced from £35 to £65, offering an engaging night out for theatre enthusiasts.
