This topic is locked
Just back from a very jolly first preview, which we all enjoyed very much. Interestingly for a Hytner show it's very conventional in setting and in performance; there are no major surprises, nor controversial interpretation. If one was being critical you could say it was playing a bit safe; I'm not, in fact I rather enjoyed it's simple, traditional feel. The luxury cast are smashing - Russel Beale and Wanamaker have a lovely warm chemistry and look like they are having a great time. SRB plays it rather like his Humble Boy, a little boy lost, who refused to grow up. And ZW is as spitfire-like as you would imagine, and really rather sexy (particularly in one rather damp moment). I like that they're a bit older too - there is a real sense of longing at the end, as if they had given up on ever finding love at all. But Mark Addy is sensational! Very funny and effortless and well supported by Trevor Peacock - who would have thought Dogberry could make me laugh so much! Also loved Andrew Woodall and Daniel Hawksford as Claudio. SOme of the supporting performances need to come up a level, but I think they will do so - it was a 1st preview.
Set is beautiful, although it revolved a few too many times for me, and the lighting grgeous - a hot, sweltering Sicilian town. Some lovely bouncy music as well. A smart setting for the gulling scene which I don't want to give away here, although I'm sure it won't be long until the secret is out. Suffice to say, if you're in the front row, bring a mackintosh! Not sure about Zoe and the bucket though. In fact some of the physical comedy felt a bit forced.
I have to say that this isn't the funniest Much Ado I've ever seen - it plays up the tragic second half, and is suffused with a melancholy throughout. And it doesn't quite have the spark of the Marianne Elliot show from last year, yet. But that may come.
So to sum up - a conventional production, rather beautifully done, trying a bit hard in places, and overlong (3 hrs).
Oh, and don't forget your swimming goggles.....!
Much Ado Spoilers!#3 Guest_Guest_Skylight_*_*Posted 11 December 2007 - 11:27 PM
My friends were split over this with some rating it as 'boring and irritating' but I rather liked it. And I agree with Eve about Mark Addy; I giggled so much the people in front of me turned round! Overall I've seen better and seen a lot worse. Definitely worth an evening out - pretty much sold out for the run though from what I've heard.
#4
|
|
Promote to Article
