‘The remarkable thing about Shakespeare is that he is really very good—in spite of all the people who say he is very good.’
The year is 1594–ish. An upstart crow from Stratford has promised his latest play to both Richard Burbage who runs the Curtain Theatre and to Philip Henslowe – heavily indebted theatrical entrepreneur and owner of the rival Rose Theatre. The play is the thing, but summer’s lease is all too short and the script is still not written. Inspiration for the masterpiece (working title: Romeo and Ethel the Pirate’s Daughter) is lacking and young Will is suffering from writer’s block. Until he meets Viola de Lesseps – noblewoman, muse, theatre groupie and….surely not…an actor? Cue gender-bending mistaken identities as men play women, and women play men playing women – all leading to a comedy of errors and the greatest love story ever written. Royal patronage, backstage intrigue, gruesome assassination and true love – the course of which is not known for running smooth – all conspire to create a fast-paced Elizabethan theatrical romp.
‘Comedy. That’s what they want. Love and a bit with a dog.’
We’re not sure about the dog.
In rehearsals – Photos by Ben Copping:
