Reviewed by Ann Durrell
Much Ado about Nothing is one of my favourites of Shakespeare’s comedy’s and this production by Northern Broadsides is faultless in its delivery. The cast of 14 are all excellent – you feel their genuine enjoyment at performing which make the whole experience even more enjoyable. Whether it was just good acting or on point comedic chemistry there were parts when I thought that one or more of the characters were going to collapse into fits of giggles – which when a good majority of the play centres around mischief is exactly right. I actually think that the production has delivered by favourite ever working of Hey Nonny Nonny delivered by Don Pedro et all.
This production is set in the north of England post war. Don Pedro, Don John, Benedick and Claudio are airmen returning from the war. The female leads are doing their bit for Britain in the Women’s Land Army far from glam in corduroy dungarees wellies. Throughout we are treated to original songs from the era and even a little lindyhop.
Benedick, Robert Simpson and Beatrice, Isobel Middleton are a pair who revel in a war of words, finding every opportunity to bring the other down. Benedick a committed bachelor and Beatrice a headstrong and formidable woman sworn off marriage. It’s obvious to their family and friends that there may be deeper feelings to the warring pair than they are willing to admit. The Prince, Claudio, Hero and her gentlewoman then go about planting the seed to each that the other may harbour feelings with hilarity ensuing. Simpson and Middleton are both brilliant in their roles, several side glances to the audiences from Simpson engage us into his dalliance.
Linford Johnson as Claudio gives a sterling performance as the cocky young count who when drawn in by Don Johns plan is very quick to believe his love would betray him. Sarah Kameela Impey plays the gentle, naive and innocent Hero and is very believable in the role. Claudio is cruel but delivers the remorse of the character well when the truth comes out.
The watchmen bring yet more hilarity to an already brilliant working of the classic, it is Dad’s Army with a smattering of sass. Apprehending the culprits by wrapping them in knitting wool definitely brought a guffaw or two from the audience.
I could not fault any part and would go as far as to say Northern Broadsides have delivered my favourite production of Much Ado About Nothing to date, one not to miss.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £23 (booking fees may apply).
Much Ado About Nothing is at The Lowry in Manchester from 7-11 May 2019, for more information or to book tickets visit www.thelowry.com or call the box office on 0843 208 6000.
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, Manchester, M50 3AZ | 0843 208 6000
