MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING IS ALIVE WITH HUMOUR, MUSIC, AND FUN

By Ruth Thompson | @ruth.thompson_ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

Much Ado About Nothing directed by Sean Holmes was a delight to watch in all aspects! Opening the ‘Feeling Alive’ Summer season at Shakespeare’s Globe this production was certainly alive with humour, music, and fun.

Watching any production at the Globe Theatre is always an experience, the historic building instils awe no matter where you stand, sit or lean. Entering the venue, collecting your cushion, and sitting up high to watch the performance, whilst also marvelling at the how the sound from the actors can be heard so clearly throughout is something everyone should experience at least once!

We find our lovers and enemies in an idyllic post-war Italian town, the set and costumes were stunning with bright vibrant blues and oranges, that make the audience wish for summer to appear immediately. Whilst the stage is simple the audience is treated to the characters in exaggerated animal costumes halfway through the play, getting to enjoy looking at each individually and laughing at those designed for exactly that reaction. With a Mediterranean inspiration across all visuals, it is colourful and quirky in equal measures.

A LAUGH OUT LOUD PRODUCTION WITH THE UNIQUE EXPERIENCE OF AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION

We follow the journey of the young lovers Claudio and Hero as a villain tries to separate them and Benedick and Beatrice as they spare their way into love, with a little help their companions.

The play is laugh out a loud funny with the unique experience of audience participation to heighten the comedy of the play. Leaning over the balcony to watch as actors and props are walked through the crowds or characters are seen hiding from their companions behind unsuspecting members of the public make the Globe Theatre utterly charming. As to be expected Much Ado About Nothing features multiple musical pieces the best of which is ‘Hey Nonny Nonny’, the audience is again included in this and encouraged to sing and clap along creating an electric energy and a smile on the face.

The whole cast was wonderful, but Ekow Qartey definitely shines with his charm, delivery and infectious smile whilst Robert Mountford is an ideal villain with pompous costuming and dastardly delivery.

Don’t miss your chance to watch this fantastic production for yourself, “Much Ado About Nothing” is playing at the Globe Theatre from 25th April – 24th August 2024.

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Photo Credit: Marc Brenner