Writer in Residence at Malvern Theatres, Nick Wilkes, is clearly on a creative roll presenting his latest play, Adrian’s Wall, only a couple of months after his last, Mog Bridges, which saw a Morgan car make its theatrical debut on the main stage. This time he divided the auditorium in the Forum theatre with Hadrian’s Wall, leaving audience members choosing tickets on the North or South side of the wall; a very poignant action during the week of the Scottish Referendum. On this occasion though, it was clear that there wasn’t any divide when it came to enjoyment of the show.

Inspired by a primary school project and personal issues, mild mannered, Adrian (Robert Temple), decides to embrace his midlife crisis and walk the length of Hadrian’s Wall. Despite a mass appeal to friends and family it looks as if it will be a solo mission until he is joined, last minute, by his Neanderthal builder mate Bryan (Rob Keeves) and bookworm Nevil (Murray Andrews), of whom he has little recollection from his schooldays. Before the day is out, a mysterious stranger, Stuart (Adrian Ross-Jones), joins them to become an integral part of their adventure. Their individual lives unravel on the wall as stories are told, perceptions are challenged, friendships develop and personal awakenings occur.

Wilkes is an eloquent writer and has a great sense of comedy and storytelling, which is perfectly executed by the performers under the creative vision of director, Jon Legg, who fully utilises and explores the traverse staging throughout the eighty-four mile physical and metaphorical journey of each character. All of the actors are excellent in their roles and give an immensely slick performance and Pippa Meekings, along with both the director and writer, make excellent cameo appearances.

Even though this is an epic three hours long, with interval, it doesn’t drag. Having said that, it could easily be edited down to a more palatable sojourn. However, this is a funny and heart-warming production and definitely worth seeing. Nick Wilkes is a credit to Malvern Theatres and deserves the following that his is achieving with his writing. This production wonderfully supports the Help The Heroes campaign and runs until Saturday.  ★★★★☆   Rob Holcroft