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Romeo & Juliet Malvern Theatres ***** Shakespeare’s star-cross’d lovers met
their fatal destiny in an innovative and moving production in Malvern
last night, thanks to the Flabbergast Theatre Company. This company majors on physical theatre, and the
choreography and movement are key to this interpretation while retaining
the essential elements of text and scene. The cast function as an
ensemble and achieve a strong corporate identity, while clearly taking
individual roles to present the characters and their actions. We received no programme or even cast list, which
indicates how strongly they wish to be seen as a team rather than as
individual actors, but we are not left in any doubt about who is playing
which character during this inclusive performance. The use of simple, live music and sound effects –
a drum, a bell, humming etc – was particularly powerful and added
significantly to the poignancy and intensity of the dramatic scenes. The
lighting was similarly beautifully designed to create atmosphere and
establish mood. Often the movement reflected the emotional
turmoil of the characters, and the chorus movements occasionally
intensified the sense that there was a spirit world surrounding the
protagonists and influencing outcomes. Just occasionally however the
activity of the chorus detracted from the sublime poetry being spoken by
the principal characters. The delivery of the Bard’s poetry was usually
very clear, though at times accents and speed of delivery meant we lost
some lines. The Nurse gave a lively performance in this way, the actor
who was a blend of both Lord and Lady Capulet was strong, and the boyish
Juliet delivered lines with great vivacity and energy. The Romeo was
less of a teenager but gave a strong natural performance, though his
hair got in the way at times; the Friar was a strong presence and spoke
well. Visually this is an excellent production – the
simplicity of the modern and abstract set with staging at various levels
provides scope for the physical variety of movement. The simple but
effective use of white sheets and well-designed lighting highlight and
complement the emotional intensity of the production. Although some editing of the text has taken place, and some purists might take exception to aspects of this production, this is a good one for young students of Shakespeare to experience. The energy and creativity will help them to develop a love of our most brilliant playwright. Tim Crow 21-05-24 |
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