Theatrical Review: Natalie Dormer Shines in 'Anna Karenina' Adaptation

In a bold reimagining of Leo Tolstoy's classic novel, 'Anna Karenina', Natalie Dormer delivers a compelling performance as the titular character in Phillip Breen's adaptation at the Chichester Festival Theatre. The production, which runs until June 28, 2025, seeks to explore the depths of emotional turmoil and societal constraints faced by its characters while employing a unique theatrical style that both captivates and confounds.

Dormer's portrayal of Anna, a discontented wife navigating the complexities of love and societal expectations, has received acclaim for its depth and nuance. According to Arifa Akbar, the reviewer for The Guardian, Dormer embodies Anna's boldness, insecurity, and anger, capturing the essence of a woman trapped in a loveless marriage. However, the chemistry between Anna and her love interest, Vronsky, played by Seamus Dillane, has been criticized for lacking vibrancy, rendering Vronsky a somewhat flat character.

Phillip Breen's direction incorporates original elements that reflect the novel’s ambition without straying from its core narrative. The production features an innovative use of music, particularly the haunting sounds of a violin that evoke the emotional weight of the story. The ensemble cast, utilizing regal seating during non-performance moments, adds to the visual splendor of the show, designed by Max Jones to convey a sense of desolate opulence.

While Breen’s adaptation aims to modernize the language and make it relatable to contemporary audiences, some critics argue that this approach can detract from the original text's emotional depth. For instance, the character Dolly, played by Naomi Sheldon, delivers a line that starkly contrasts the period setting, stating, 'Marriage, I’d rather stick pins in my eyes.' This modern vernacular provides humor but risks undermining the gravity of the characters' situations.

The production also attempts to encapsulate the broader themes of the novel, including the rigid social hierarchies of Russia's elite and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. However, the pacing has been described as uneven, with some moments feeling overly brisk while others drag on, leading to a three-hour runtime that some audience members found excessive.

Critics have noted the effective use of theatrical devices that foreshadow Anna's tragic end, such as sound effects mimicking train noises and a visible wooden train set on stage. Nevertheless, the subtlety of these devices may leave newcomers to the story uncertain about the narrative's tragic conclusion, which could dilute the impact of Anna's fate.

Despite its shortcomings, Breen's 'Anna Karenina' is recognized for its ambitious scope and innovative staging. The tension between Anna and her unfaithful husband, Karenin, portrayed by Tomiwa Edun, highlights the moral complexities of their marriage, while the contrasting relationship between Levin and Kitty, played by David Oakes and Shalisha James-Davis, respectively, offers moments of tenderness and humor.

In conclusion, Natalie Dormer’s performance undeniably steals the spotlight in this adaptation, yet the production itself grapples with balancing modern interpretations with the profound emotional landscape of Tolstoy's original work. As the show continues its run at the Chichester Festival Theatre, audiences are invited to witness a tragic tale that oscillates between theatrical brilliance and emotional detachment.