Verdict: Five stars.

When a play leaves you an emotional wreck as the curtain closes, you know you have just witnessed something special.

But then again this is my first time experiencing Stephen King's Shawshank Redemption, and I am probably in a minority.

The classic prison tale has been revamped for the stage with a host of well-known faces taking on the lead roles made famous by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman.

TV hearttrobe Paul Nicholls, best known for playing Joe Wicks in Eastenders, captures the internal struggle of Andy Dufresne as he adapts to life in the 'Shank'. The actor blew me with his performance as he mastered the American accent while his movement was so powerful that the audience was able to relate to the emotions of his character. He is a real surprise in this play.

His role could not exist without the relationship he shares with Ellis 'Red' Redding played by Ben Onwukwe. The actor is able to adapt easily between addressing the audience to tell the story and performing his role in the play. He draws you in and has you captivated with his strong stage presence. And the chemistry between Onwukwe and Wicks adds to the depth of the story.

The supporting cast boost this stage play. They are serious when it is necessary and the comic timing is spot on.

The play also has very clever choreography with fight scenes showing off great technique and a controversial rape is handled with sensitivity. Music from the era is also played throughout which is a bonus.

People who know this story will love the book, they will hold up the film as a classic but for me this play introduced me to a tale I will now treasure.

The tale of friendship and never giving up in the face of adversity was meant for the stage, and is a story that leaves us with a life lesson or two.

Catch The Shawshank Redemption at The Theatre Royal until Saturday.