Chapterhouse Twelfth Night Review
Chapterhouse
Twelfth Night
Reviewed by Shelley Owens
Chapterhouse Theatre Company is enjoying its 14th year of touring open-air theatre at some of the most beautiful country houses, castles and heritage sites across the UK and Ireland. We were fortunate to be invited to enjoy their production of the Shakespearean comedy Twelfth Night in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.
The tranquil, lakeside setting for our first open- air theatre experience was a far cry from the rush hour motorway traffic we had battled through to reach our picturesque destination. Langley Priory is a stunning country mansion sitting in a secluded hollow surrounded by ancient parkland, manicured lawns and lakes. The theatre set was located against the backdrop of a large lake looking out across the parkland beyond and although the sky was threatening rain, we hoped for a dry evening!
Joining the other members of the audience, we selected our vantage point, set down our camping chairs and tucked in to our pre-show picnic. Looking around it was clear there were a few seasoned open air theatre goers about with their tables, chairs, blankets and jugs of Pimm’s on the go. The earlier rain had clearly kept the audience numbers down but nevertheless there was a definite pre-show buzz amongst us.
Twelfth Night is full of outrageous characters, unlikely scenarios and some pretty cruel pranks. The touring cast numbers only 8 actors in all, playing 15 characters, some playing 2 or even 3 roles which required some slick costume changes! This new production of Shakespeare's tale of twins caught in a storm, shipwrecked and a case of mistaken identity was bold and energetic. The actors varied in experience but each one brought their own special something to the production.
Sadly by the interval the rain had arrived and the audience brought out the brollies and waterproofs! It did nothing to distract the players though, as they promise, the show does go on and although they were visibly soaked through they remained totally focussed!
If you are a theatre lover and have never experienced the atmosphere of an outdoor production then make sure you catch one of the six Chapterhouses plays being performed in some of the most beautiful venues around the UK. Details of each play and its performances can be found here.
We give this production 4 out of 5 – brilliant set, some good acting and an experience to remember, even if it we did get soaked!
Rating: 4/5
For more information or to book tickets click here.
