Twelfth Night in Leicester

Following a critically acclaimed London run and an extensive UK and international tour, Filter visit Curve for the first time with their explosive interpretation of Shakespeare’s TWELFTH NIGHT.

Originally commissioned by RSC Artistic Director Michael Boyd as part of the RSC’s Complete Works Festival, Filter’s characteristically radical and riotous interpretation of this well loved classic reaffirms their reputation as one of the most consistently inventive and critically-acclaimed theatre companies working today. Nothing is hidden, and no two shows are the same: decisions on the direction of the performance are taken on the hoof as the narrative unfolds, and each unique performance develops in a different way each night.

Olivia’s melancholic, puritanical household clashes head on with Sir Toby’s insatiable appetite for drunken debauchery. Orsino’s relentless pursuit of Olivia and Malvolio’s extraordinary transformation typify the madness of love in Illyria: land of make-believe and illusion.

In this informal production the stage is covered in cables, technical equipment, synthesisers, microphones, amplifiers and supporting instruments that enable Filter to create the world of the play through sound. This story of romance, satire and mistaken identity is crafted into one of the most exciting and accessible Shakespeare productions of recent years. Performed under house lights with actors in casual costumes, the experience is more akin to a rock concert than classic theatre, creating an exhilarating live chemistry between actor, audience and text.

TWELFTH NIGHT is directed by Sean Holmes, Artistic Director of the Lyric Hammersmith, London where Three Sisters, his most recent collaboration with the company opened to critical acclaim prior to a national tour.

Founded in 2001, Filter are actors Oliver Dimsdale, Ferdy Roberts and musician Tim Phillips, working with a trademark fusion of performance with integrated live music and sound. Filter work with a collective of musicians, technicians, designers, writers and directors in a strong group dynamic aiming to create a devising language – an artistic short hand – that is truly creative.

Performances: Monday 11 – Saturday 16 October

Performances: evenings at 7.45 pm / Tue, Thu and Sat matinees at 2.30 pm.

Tickets: £14.50 – £24.50, concessionary discounts available.

Tickets and Information: 0116 242 3595 / www.curveonline.co.uk