Dr Faustus (2009/2010)
Scott Smith, Kerry Frampton and Jimmy Whiteaker in Splendid’s 2009 production of Dr Faustus (photos: Lewis Wileman)
Doctor Faustus is Christopher Marlowe’s legendary story of a vain scholar’s pact with the devil; twenty-four years of unlimited pleasure for the price of one human soul.
But does Faustus really get the best side of the deal? And does a five-hundred year-old cautionary tale have anything to teach the sophisticated human of today?
In our new adaptation, the story of Dr Faustus becomes an entertainment presented by Lucifer to the newly-damned, interleaved with newly devised episodes, each dealing with a different ‘Deadly Sin’, as he asks the audience to consider ‘what’s your sin?’.
With a script that is a mixture of Marlowe and modern language, and a performance style that runs from high drama to low, low comedy, Splendid’s ‘Dr Faustus’ is a thrilling interpretation of a crowd-pleasing classic.
Trailer for the film of the 2009 production, which is no longer available – our 2019 production can be streamed instantly here
Tour poster design: Kerry Frampton
Splendid Productions’ ‘Dr Faustus’
Toured Sept 2009 – March 2010
Written by: Christopher Marlowe
Adapted by: Ben Hales
Directed by: Kerry Frampton
Additional Direction: Lucy Cuthbertson, Mal Smith
Songs by: Ben Hales
Design by: Kerry Frampton
Cast & Characters
Scott Smith: Dr Faustus, Beelzlebub, Adam
Jimmy Whiteaker: Lucifer, Wagner, Good Angel, Valdes, Pope, Sarcastic Knight, Duke
Kerry Frampton: Mephistopheles, Evil Angel, Cornelius, Eve, Clown, Emperor, Duchess
with thanks to:
Matt Wilde, Kidbrooke School
More about Dr Faustus
“An outstanding performance… Powerful and effective (and funny too!)”
Berj Terkerian, Head of Drama, Amersham School
“You made it relevant and though-provoking.”
Pip Cawte, Head of Drama, Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital, Bristol
“Lots of ideas to cover in class … great inspiration for our students.”
Emma Hathaway-Jenkins, Head of Drama, Baylis Court School, Slough
“It exceeded my expectations! It was a fantastic example of re-interpretation and the students absolutely loved it.”
Laura Kendall, Joint Head of Drama, Lord Williams School, Thame
“A synthesis of ‘teaching aids’ with a great story and text. Rather than seeming a bit forced, it was a great show on its own merit and I was genuinely moved by the end, which will long stay with me.”
John Sentance, Head of Drama, Repton School
“The production notes are an excellent resource.”
Cassie Nash, Head of English, The School of St Helen and St Katherine, Abingdon
“Brought Faustus to life!”
Valerie Goodwin, Head of Drama, Beaminster School
“As a teacher I find it inspiring! The students draw on your energy and use it within their work.”
Matt Bunn, Director of Creative & Performing Arts, Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School, Aylesbury