Leicester Drama Society bring another superb production to the Little Theatre. Based on the 1998 film, the stage adaptation of Shakespeare in Love by Lee Hall, follows Shakespeare himself as he’s in the process of writing Romeo and Juliet, all while experiencing a star-crossed love of his own.
It is wonderfully full of all the hallmarks of Shakespeare’s own works – cross-dressing, star-crossed lovers, and plenty of references to Shakespeare’s plays (“Out damned Spot” being a crowd favourite as the dog is ushered off stage), and much like Shakespeare’s writing the plot relies on absurdity. Set firmly in the 16th century, costume designer John Bale brings us back to the 21st century with a fetching corset and converse combo most of the cast sport.
Directed by Steve Illidge, theis light-hearted production features everything from romantic monalogues to sword fights within the blink of an eye, aided by a brilliant ensemble who rapidly set the scene whether that’s in Queen Elizabeth’s sophisticated court, or a rowdy pub.
Ed Turner is fantastic as Will Shakespeare, taking a man whose words have been perfected and polished over centuries and making him fallible; a man who loves love.
The romance played out between Will and Viola (Nicole Collins) is central to the story, although Viola is a great character in her own right. Collins balances Viola’s longing for poetry and love with a healthy amount of attitude towards the expectations of her as a woman.
The other crucial relationship is between Shakespeare and Marlowe (Max Mayer), as the show leans into the theory that Christopher Marlowe deserves some credit for Shakespeare’s work; Max Mayer and Ed Turner portray the writer’s friendly rivalry with humorous affection.
The 30-odd cast do a brilliant job of bringing the story to life, and some other stand-out characters include Sue Dale as the loveable, no-nonsense Nurse, Jane Durant as the formidable Queen Elizabeth, Alex Thompson as the blustery Tilney, Tom Young as swashbuckling Ned Alleyn, and John Moulding as villainous Wessex. Pete Bing has a particularly fun arc as harsh money-man Fennyman who becomes a converted thespian by the end.
Of course the real star of the show was Rory the dog, who did indeed bring the housedown in his neon ruff.
Neatly directed by Illidge, on a set designed by Matt Sykes Hooban, the audience is immersed in the world of theatre, cleverly transforming the viewpoint between auditorium and backstage.
Carl Robinson-Edwards’ choreography reaches its forte in this celebration of theatre with a goosebump raising finale that could leave you hoping for a sequel from this brilliant crew.
Shakespeare in Love is performing at the Little Theatre until 8th July, be sure to purchase tickets here,https://www.thelittletheatre.co.uk/whats-on/shakespeare-in-love/
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Shakespeare in Love at the Little Theatre
Katie Reviews 