The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
5 of the best
Theatre shows to watch free of charge at home
THIS HOUSE 1
National Theatre, streaming May 28 to June 4
It’s 1974, and Britain has a hung Parliament. The corridors of Westminster ring with the sound of infighting and backstabbing as the political parties battle to change the future of the nation. During this era of chaos, when a staggering number of politicians die and age-old traditions are thrown aside, MPs find they must roll up their sleeves, and bend the rules, to navigate a way through the Mother of all Parliaments. Enjoying two sell-out runs at the National Theatre in London, and filmed live on stage in 2013, This House is a timely, moving and comical insight into the workings of British politics. Jeremy Herrin directs this muchloved production.
Where to watch: Find the National Theatre channel on YouTube OH NO GEORGE 2
Half Moon Theatre, streaming now
This delightfully playful tale about a dog who wants to be good, but just can’t resist temptation, is ideal for ages three to eight. . Adapted from the award-winning picture book by Chris Haughton, the show uses acrobatics, slapstick comedy and live music to bring George’s chaotic and joyful escapades to life.
Where to watch: vimeo.com/414940560 3 THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR
Shakespeare’s Globe, streaming June 1 to 14
Double-meanings, disguises and dirty laundry abound as Sir John Falstaff sets about improving his financial situation by wooing Mistress Page and Mistress Ford. But the ‘Merry Wives’ quickly cotton on to his tricks and decide to have a bit of fun of their own at Falstaff ’s expense. The Merry Wives of Windsor is the only comedy that Shakespeare set in his native land. Drawing influences from British 1930s fashion, music and dance, the production celebrates women, the power and beauty of nature, and with its witty mix of verbal and physical humour, it rejoices in a tradition that reaches right up to the contemporary English sitcom.
Where to watch: Find the Shakespeare’s Globe channel on YouTube HER 4
Half Moon Theatre, streaming now
A girl comes home to find her house has disappeared: the neighbours have fled and the streets are deserted. Aimed at teenagers, Her is a compelling story of a 15-year-old London girl who inexplicably finds that conflict has made her an alien in her own country. Using innovative green screen technology to integrate animation, film and live action, Her combines the emotional depth of theatre with the visual intensity of the graphic novel to create a dark and twisted world of politics, war and survival.
Where to watch: https://vimeo.com/417654387 THE DARK THEATRE 5
Prospero, streaming now
Here’s something a bit different, as families are invited to become absorbed in a murdermystery with a difference. The Dark Theatre mixes classroom drama techniques with an interactive comic book, as participants endeavour to answer the question: who killed playwright Nathan Page? It’s aimed at ages ten to 13, with creative tasks and cryptic clues aplenty.
Where to watch:Prospero.digital