Effectively applied modern context makes this a funny, empathetic, must-see production of a Shakespeare comedy
This production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona had a wonderfully modern feel, but kept to the original words with a level of understanding, and modern humour, that ensured they came across with a purity that could be fully appreciated. The modernity of football boots, manicures, Hinge, and Take Me Home, Country Roads gave new levels of accessibility to this Shakespearean comedy.
My favourite thing about this production, without a shadow of a doubt, was that it did not shy away from the horrifyingly misogynistic and problematic language and actions of Proteus (played by Rob Wolfreys), and the allowances that Valentine (played by Will Shakleton) makes to his friend after he has apologised for the impact his actions have had on Valentine…but not the women. This acknowledgement was done silently, and carefully, with no direct impact on the speech or the spoken story – however the tone was beautifully managed by the women (Lilia Kanu and Rosie Mahendra, respectively) on stage in silence. Their body language, and facial acting demonstrated wonderfully their disapproval, shock, and that they no longer wished to be involved with these men who had forgotten that they have a say in the future that they wish to participate in.
The modern context that this show is being performed in is a post “Bear or Man” debate which gives even more meaning to Mahendra’s lines about preferring to be stuck with a tiger in the woods than with Proteus. Proteus, like a number of other men online, did not understand what this meant and threatened to make her care for him by use of force. It is a far more relevant play than people will expect given its age and the modern setting truly highlights this well.
The costumes and props were great, and used well to showcase more of who each character was within the society of the play. One excellent detail was the bright red heels worn by the bodyguards during the scene used to introduce Jake Roberston’s Duke of Milan.
The set design was also handled well with the modern context, the stages space was used well and never felt overcrowded. One picturesque detail was the hanging purple flowers during the outside scene at the Duke’s home. The scaffolding towers were used effectively and always enhanced the stage.
At the end of the first act there is a physical confrontation between Shakleton’s Valentine and Robertson’s Duke, and this moment should be praised for its commitment to the altercation, as should the later physical confrontation of Shakleton and Wolfreys’ Proteus. The masterful physicality of the moments made it effective for the emotions conveyed, and while I’m sure it was handled professionally and safely it was done so well that it looked like it hurt. Congratulations!
Another actor who deserves plenty of praise for his debut performance is of course Rocky the Labradoodle, who portrayed Crab. Rocky was attentive and drew laughter from the audience, his performance was touching. He deservedly stole the scenes he was present for, while working well with Jo Rich. Every single member of cast, and every creative involved, should be proud of the performance and the show they put together. I could not spot a weak link among them.
Truly this was a fabulous performance, that while modern in its setting and context stuck to the intended story with an enhanced level of human understanding that only expanded the comedy and emotional effectiveness of the story.