Sensitive adaptation of Lawrence novel

By ODT - Barbara Frame | Posted: Wednesday Mar 04, 2026

D.H. Lawrence’s The Fox, Globe Theatre

Sensitive adaptation of Lawrence novel | Otago Daily Times Online News

In 1918, two women struggle with a farm that’s too much for them and are plagued by a fox that steals their hens.

A soldier appears at the door and disrupts their modest contentment. Things are never the same again.

This, briefly, is the plot of The Fox.

Keith Scott’s adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s 1922 novella represents the original sensitively and fairly.

Modern audiences’ reactions will differ from those of the original readers more than a century ago, possibly with bewilderment or hostility.

Yet, while Lawrence’s ideas about non-verbal connection and the forces of nature may seem strange or indefensible, or simply interestingly historical, arguably they can still be debated and evaluated.

Nellie March, the more robust of the women, and Henry Grenfel, who wilfully destroys Nellie’s confidence and independence, are portrayed by Maegan Stedman-Ashford and Thomas Downing.

Their performances are assured, intelligent and highly nuanced.

Wisely, they don’t attempt to overplay or simplify the attraction between their characters, maintaining its mystery.

Caitlin Gordon, as Jill Banford, successfully makes the transition from big-sisterly care for Henry to undisguised loathing, but a quieter, less shrill approach to the role would be more effective.

Visually, the production is a treat. A lovely, detailed set designed by Scott shows us both the farmhouse kitchen and something of the exterior, and this is complemented by costumes by Charmian Smith and lighting by Brian Byas and Phillip Todd.

As far as I could tell, reactions from the 50-odd audience members on opening night varied from enthusiastic approval to frank incomprehension.

Scott, who also directs the production, has been planning the work for several years, and it’s good to see it at last.

It continues the Globe’s laudable tradition of presenting provocative or controversial theatre. Bravo.