SYDNEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL 2013
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
Nothing says metropolitan paradise like sitting on the banks of Rozelle Bay, bubbles in hand, witnessing one of literatures greatest works being resurrected. On a humble stage the cast involved in the 6th annual Sydney Shakespeare Festival bring all they have to the high table of Messina, adding their own natural wit to put on a performance that would have even the Bard himself chuckling over his sherry.
For all those that are dreading an afternoon of intense Shakespearean monologue, I tell you, fear not! With a cast oozing of talent, including director Julie Baz, John Michael Burdon and Brendon Taylor, they turn even the most laborious dialogue into hilarious wordplay. This definitely makes this not one to miss.
So grab your blankets and booze, pull up some grass and let love, heartache, joy and mischief entertain you into the night.
AS YOU LIKE IT
While Much Ado About Nothing explores the multi-faceted nature of being in love and the challenges that come with it, As You Like It is the exploration of man in different environments and what becomes of them when faced with a different way of life.
Arguably one of the Bards most controversial works, the cast shine once again on the banks of Bicentennial Park. They put aside all their prohibitions remarkably to represent some of Shakespeare’s most unique and slightly loopy characters in a majorly convincing fashion.
Cast standouts include Emily Elise, Caitlin Maruno and Dominic McDonald in particular, whose excellent portrayal of the fabulously metro sexual Audrey had this writer both amused and astounded.
“All the world’s a stage,” Shakespeare once wrote. But this starlit one in particular is not one to miss!
Until Feb 24, Bicentennial Park, Glebe Foreshore,$17-29, 0428 032 838, sydneyshakespearefestival.com.au
BY CHELSEA DEELEY
