What You Will

William Shakespeare’s The Tempest is turned into a musical in What You Will, performed at C Venues by the pupils of Shrewsbury School.

The show starts well with a dramatic sequence symbolising the sinking of a ship, the inhabitants of which are shipwrecked off the coast of Illyria.

Sebastian and his twin, Viola, become separated and the latter disguises herself as a boy. She becomes Cesario and works for Duke Orsino, who is in love with Olivia. Chaos ensues in this tale of cross-dressing and confusion and there are strong performances from some of the cast.

Sam Ansloos is a great Malvolio. He and the clowns, played excellently here by Ali Webb and Rob Cross, delight the audience with their performances.

Some of the solo voices failed to fill the venue but the cast generally make a good sound and are at their best as a whole.

Ann Watkins’ costumes work well and Alex Davies’ lighting enhances the plot whilst director Peter Fanning creates some striking stage images.

– Julie McNicholls