Intrigued to see how HER Productions were going to handle Twelfth Night, part of their Unseemly Shakespeare series. This is a comic tale of hidden identity, unrequited love, deception and general carousing and tomfoolery, and a play we knew well, so we were anticipating a fun evening from the start.
An all female/non binary cast who appeared on stage dancing en masse with a disco beat was an indication immediately that this was going to be an energetic and entertaining production. As it was Press Night, the audience were bound to be more vocally appreciative and they didn’t disappoint either.
Staging was simple, modern, with initially a nightclub dance floor, then a seaside location and a cheesy ‘kiss me quick’ vibe.
Familiar characters had a unique interpretation. Feste the court jester/fool was played absolutely perfectly, cheeky and quick with arch comments and superb musical performances too, some Elvis with a touch of James Brown and a trio performance of Enough is Enough with Toby Belch and Andrew Aguecheek was outstanding. Viola/Cesario was considered and subtle, Count Orsino was suitably Alpha Male OTT, Malvolio was perfectly ridiculous, full of hubris. Belch and Aguecheek were the perfect pairing, hapless carousers and guaranteed comedy in every scene.
Second act felt like it moved up a notch, more energy and confidence in the performances and even more very funny comedy moments. Fencing with sticks of seaside rock was hilarious. Plenty of proper slap stick scenes which the audience loved.
A hugely enjoyable experience all round, a clever and modern interpretation of classic Shakespeare. Reluctant to give too much away as it is so enjoyable it needs to be experienced live, it won’t disappoint!
Co-directed by Kayleigh Hawkins and Stuart Crowther.
It will be on at Hope Mill until 5th July, then touring to Rochdale Heywood Civic 9th and 10th July then onto Lawrence Batley Theatre 14th and 15th July. Do go and see it!
By
Christine Ince