The Life & Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby Parts I & II - TNT

David Edgar's fast-paced reworking of his 1980 landmark adaptation has a smaller cast (27 playing more than 100 parts) and — even at 6½ hours — a shorter running time. It is still a considerable commitment from actors and audience, but it's one well worth making as the hustle of London, the squalor of the infamous Dotheboys Hall and the quirky Charles Dickens characters come to life. As penniless Devonshire-born Nicholas and his sister Kate try to make their way in the world, the bad (David Yelland as their wealthy Uncle) and the good (the flame-haired Cheeryble brothers), the poor (Richard Bremmer's damaged, knuckle-cracking Newman Noggs) and the rich are all to be found in this epic, which brought the audience to its feet at curtain call.
Gielgud, Shaftesbury Ave, W1 (0870-950 0915). Until January 25. £49.50-£20