Review: Shakespeare in Love
Shakespeare in Love Bath Theatre Royal
There are some stories I adore so much that you could do nearly anything to them and I will still enjoy myself. Shakespeare in Love is not among these. Approaching the production currently on stage at the Theatre Royal, Bath it could have gone either way. Add to this that I had dragged a friend quite out of her way to see it, the well-versed cast were not going to be given an easy ride. There was an excruciating moment when the opening skit dragged on too long in front of a silent audience. I can only imagine how much worse it must feel on stage trying to break the ice. But to my great relief we didn’t have to wait too long for the laughs to start rolling in and from there the pace built up to a rollicking ride that left you feeling buoyant and wanting more. I enjoyed the good mix of slapstick humour alongside the more witty word play you would expect from a Shakespeare-esque play. The full talents of the cast were put to good use with the creative transformation of a small set, on stage playing of instruments, splendid choruses and even an Irish jig! No member of the cast let the team down. But Pierro Niel-mee made a particularly convincing struggling playwright, while Bill Ward as Lord Wessex, the unwanted suitor, was every part the villain. And although Judi Dench is an impossible act to follow, Geraldine Alexander gave it a darn good go as Queen Elizabeth. Following in the footsteps of a much-loved film puts pressure on a performance, but I can honestly say this adaptation by Lee Hall added a new dimension and would be enjoyed by both those who have or haven’t seen the movie. Although there are some more serious moments in the play, the story the producers were working with was never going to be particularly profound. But if you’re looking for the perfect antidote for a bad day at work, you can’t go past it. Expect to have a jolly good time and to be kept on your toes – a cast member may just pop up beside you. As for the Theatre Royal – it is a joy in itself. The old world grandeur of the theatre belies its modest size. It is particularly cosy and comforting from the moment you enter. During your visit, climb down into The Vaults. Sadly I didn’t have the chance to sample the food menu, but it was a wonderfully ambient place to enjoy a drink, with muted lighting under exposed stone arches.
Shakespeare in Love runs at the Theatre Royal, Bath, until Saturday with evening and matinee performances. Prices from £22, visit theatreroyal.org.uk