Deck chairs, lemon trees and romantic backdrops – ELSF brings the Mediterranean to North London as the audience are whisked away to sun-drenched Messina, a Sicilian paradise. This new take on Much Ado strikes the perfect balance between Shakespeare’s original story and accessibility for contemporary audiences. The dialogue remains in its original Elizabethan form, delivered with a playful twist.
Ursula Early delivers a fiery Beatrice, the heartbroken heroine seeking solace at her family’s villa. Her cutting wit is laced with a vulnerability that endears her to the audience. Just as the holiday is beginning, she runs into her obnoxious ex, Benedick, played by Kieran Garland, who is on leave from the army. After a series of unfortunate meetings it is clear the couple are still in love, although neither of them want to admit it. Garland perfectly captures Benedick’s arrogance and charm, making their on-again, off-again dynamic all the more delightful. Meanwhile, Beatrice’s cousin Hero (Londiwe Mthembu) is also falling for one of the troop, Benedick’s friend Claudio (Isambard Rawbone). As the story unfolds, we witness romance, anger, deception and a little sabotage.
Director Rosie Ward embraces the open-air setting. The performance unfolds around you, drawing the audience into the heart of the action. In one stand-out scene, Leonato’s (Hero’s father and Duke of Messina) extravagant masked ball becomes a vibrant party, complete with sing-a-longs and playful choreography. This fun-filled performance is perfect for children, with many in the audience having attended the mask workshop prior, donning their colourful creations. The audience are transformed from observers to party revellers.
The manicured gardens of Lauderdale House, a picturesque tudor house, are the perfect setting for this production. Made even more magical as the sun sets and the stage is lit up with fairy lights. The audience are encouraged to bring picnics, which can be enjoyed throughout the performance.
The atmosphere is one of pure joy, with laughter erupting from the audience throughout – most notably at Beatrice’s cutting witticisms and when one of the cast members starts eating an audience member’s crisps. Children and adults alike are entertained by slapstick characters and the play’s inherent silliness. ELSF’s trademark high-energy numbers are sure to get your toes tapping. The pop-hits soundtrack is perfectly delivered by Lauren Hendricks and the rest of the cast.
ELSF’s Much Ado About Nothing is a vibrant tapestry of Shakespearean wit, modern music and summer fun. It’s a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the Bard’s timeless tale reimagined under the stars, leaving you with a heart full of joy.
East London Shakespeare Festival will be performing around London until 4th August. For more information and tickets, please see their website.
Featured Image: Scene from Much Ado About Nothing (c) Yioda Nicholaou
Review by Amy Melling
Read Amy’s latest Review: When Forms Come Alive “a rapturous exploration of sculpture” – Hayward Gallery, until 6 May – Abundant Art
