Twelfth Night at the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield Review
Twelfth Night
Crucible Theatre, Sheffield
18 September to 18 October 2014
Reviewed by Becky Linsell
Sheffield Theatres have collaborating once again with English Touring Theatre to bring William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night to the Crucible stage. This popular Shakespeare comedy centres around mistaken identity, drunken antics, practical jokes, cross dressing and unrequited love.
When the twins Sebastian and Viola are rescued from a shipwreck, they both arrive separately in Illyna. Both believe that the other one to have drowned. Viola (Rose Reynolds) disguises herself as a boy and finds herself employment with Orsino (Jake Fairbrother), who is love with Olivia (Rebecca Johnson). Malvolio is the subject of a cruel practical joke, which makes him believe that Olivia is in love with him. Olivia has actually fallen in love with Viola (who is disguised as a boy). Meanwhile Olivia has fallen in love with Orsino.
The show is three hours long, however with the slick approach to Shakespeare’s comic lines, scenes and characters, it really did not feel that long. The excellent directing by Jonathan Munby, beautiful choreography by Lucy Hind and superb music composed by Grant Olding are the making of this production. This Shakespeare production is freshened by the integration of the Irish folk music played by Feste, particularly at the beginning of the production it provides a striking atmosphere.
A simple but very effective set, with cleverly designed and effective lighting provide this performance with the perfect backdrop. I just loved the effects of the red rose petals that came bursting from the actor’s chests or were showered through the air to represent love.
The performance of the cast was impressive across the board. Special mention for me has to go to Feste (Brian Protheroe), Sir Toby Belch and Sir Andrew Aguecheek (Milo Towmey), who between them provided so many well-timed comic moments during the production.
The audience loved it, especially the school aged youngsters in the audience, who particularly gave huge applause.
It is highly recommended and definitely a production that you should not miss!
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £17 to £25 (plus £1/£1.50 transaction fee).
Twelfth Night is at the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield until 18 October 2014. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0114 249 6000.
Crucible Theatre, 55 Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 1DA | 0114 249 6000
