I attended; the performance initially called 'The Personal History, Adventures, Experience and Observation of David Copperfield the Younger of Blunderstone Rookery,' but now referred to simply as 'David Copperfield, The Younger.'

The self-proclaimed "favourite child" of Dickens' own work, the closest work to an autobiography.

While I have witnessed similar performances with more grandiose, the spoken words are far superior for the literary mind.

A modern take on an old-fashioned tale, which retained the essence of a quintessentially Dickens production. The additions of musical songs, sound effects and slight alterations to the text did not hinder the transportation of the mind, to the time and place it was written, shown through the tones and attitudes of its characters.

Rosalind Ford distinguished herself with the most character transformations (18), switching effortlessly between genders, from cradle to grave, with songs and sound effects to boot. Switching accents, roles ranging from coastal fisherman to country farmer to the aristocratic woman. The crowd roared at her mimicking of the cry of a newborn babe.

Phillip Olagoke played the singular role of David Copperfield. His childlike voice and innocence transformed to teenage wonder and later, reflection, whilst retaining his love of life throughout.

He narrated, he acted, he became David Copperfield. His interactions with the combined 34 characters, played by his co-stars, were each distinguished and defined by a different point in his life, his education and his character.

Reuben Greeph also played a hilarious multitude of roles including David's first wife, housekeeper and her brother, aunt and a range of authority figures too; a total of 16 characters.

They cast of three complimented each other and showcased their spectrum of talents.

The play offered an insight into another time, another way of life, that makes our concerns seem that little bit smaller, or at least set aside for a couple of hours. It gave cause to reflect on the impact others can have throughout your life, with equal joy and grief.

An enjoyable evening of family entertainment. Visit the Barn Theatre's website to book your tickets.