Review: The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged)
The Reduced Shakespeare Company prove that the works of the Bard are certainly not boring when they take on his complete works in one evening!
William Shakespeare, one of the greatest playwrights and poets in the English language, left behind a complete body of works that includes 39 plays, which continue to influence literature and culture worldwide.
Taking on such an enormous collection of material might seem like an impossible challenge, but The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) manages to condense all of these plays into a fun-filled, fast-paced and hilariously funny hour and forty minutes.
Starting with Romeo and Juliet as you’ve never seen it before this production somehow manages to fit in 38 of the 39 plays before the interval….
The final play is Hamlet, again, performed in quite a unique way… There is laughter, audience participation and a very comical “workshop” about how best to play Ophelia.
A talented cast of Woogie Jung, Tom Pavey and Kiran Raywilliams bring the action to life in this energetic production, playing multiple roles with many costume changes. Their comic timing is excellent, and they seamlessly switch between dozens of characters, often with little more than a quick costume change or a simple prop. The chemistry between the performers is evident, and their enthusiasm is infectious.
Whether you’re a big fan of the Bard or if you struggled with Shakespeare at school, this show is for you. It’s a madcap frenzy of Shakespearean genius that will have you laughing out loud from the start. If you think Shakespeare is dull then you need to see this show!
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) is at the New Wolsey Theatre until Saturday 6th June. To book tickets visit www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
Review: Wendy Cook, Ipswich24 Magazine
Photo: Mark Senior