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Eltham Little Theatre Limited, Wythfield Road, Eltham, London SE9 5TG
Registered as a Company in England and Wales. Company No. 401481
Registered as a Charity. Charity No. 208710
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ABOUT THE PLAY
Great Expectations is a coming-of-age story that explores Victorian English social hierarchies, personal growth, and moral redemption. The protagonist, Philip “Pip” Pirrip, begins life in the Medway marshlands of Kent, living with his harsh sister, Mrs. Joe, and her kind husband, Joe Gargery, a blacksmith.
Pip's life changes after encounters with eccentric figures and mysterious benefactors, shaping his journey toward maturity. As a young boy, Pip encounters an escaped convict, Abel Magwitch, in a graveyard. Fearing for his life, he retrieves food and a metal file for the convict, who later protects Pip from punishment.
Pip is introduced to Miss Havisham, a wealthy, reclusive spinster who wears her decaying wedding dress and lives in her dilapidated estate, Satis House. There he meets Estella; Miss Havisham’s beautiful but coldly raised adopted daughter. Pip falls in love with Estella and becomes ashamed of his humble origins, aspiring to become a gentleman.