MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

Shakespeare’s Globe, until October 23 (shakespearesglobe.com)

I often snooze through Shakespeare but laughed and cheered at every single second as The Globe players breathe sublime new life into Shakespeare’s delicious comedy about two besotted couples. Lucy Phelps and Ralph Davis, pictured, bring sensational snark and surprising sweetness to the Bard’s best banter as the sparring Beatrice and Benedick.

George Fouracres hits Monty Python-esque heights as the pompous Dogberry, and gender-swapping Duke Leonato and his brother are pure genius.

Transposed to 1940s Italy, there are sexy songs, silly dances, slapstick and giggling audience members pulled on-stage. Best of all, the skilled cast ensures you understand every single word. Absolute bliss.