Much Ado About Nothing

13th June - 15th August 2008

Oxford Castle - Unlock Courtyard

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Introduction

Directed by Charlotte Conquest, this production crackled with the witty exchanges of Beatrice and Benedick, past lovers with a “merry war” between them. Transported to Spain, the courtyard was decked with orange trees and the costumes were reminiscent of flamenco dancers and matadors.

Andalusian music and a flamenco style masquerade ball set the scene for the flirtatious banter and, later, the defamation and mourning of Hero.

Hilarous physical comedy was employed by the cast – Benedick was doused with water with a watering can whilst eavesdropping from the hiding place of a wheelbarrow, and Beatrice struggled not to be seen as she listened to her friends gossip behind a mirror, in the shower, and under a table.

Live song and a rousing Spanish dance for the finale gave this romantic comedy an exuberant atmosphere.

Reviews

“loaded with broad humour…sprightly performance, excellent”
The Times

“Creation at their best – inventive, versatile, energetic”
Daily Info

Artistic team

Director – Charlotte Conquest
Designer – Sara Perks
Movement Director – Aidan Treays
Singing Captain – Caroline Devlin
Voice and Verse Coach – Richard Ryder
Sound Designer – Matt Eaton
Music Composer – Pete King

Cast

Guy Burgess
Gordon Cooper
Gregory Cox
Caroline Devlin
Tom Golding
Lizzie Hopley
Olivia Mace
Kevin Murphy
Nicholas Osmond
Amy Stacy