The East London Shakespeare Festival’s “Much Ado About Nothing” at Crystal Palace offered a vibrant, community-centric experience with its modern, witty adaptation, immersive audience interaction, and charming performances set against a picturesque backdrop.
The East London Shakespeare Festival (ELSF) has once again proven their dedication to bringing joy and culture to the community with their vibrant production of “Much Ado About Nothing.” Founded with the mission to make Shakespeare accessible and enjoyable for all, the ELSF has made a significant impact on the local community, infusing neighbourhoods with the timeless charm and wit of the Bard.
I had the pleasure of seeing their performance at Crystal Palace on an exceptional sunny day. The picturesque setting, with a little lake behind the stage made Shakespeare feel at home in the park rather than on the grand stages of London. This idyllic backdrop added a magical touch to the afternoon, creating a perfect blend of nature and theatre.
The ELSF’s modern take on “Much Ado About Nothing” was both refreshing and delightful. The production was full of witty and super funny moments that had the audience engaged from start to finish. The boundaries between stage and audience were almost non-existent, fostering a sense of inclusivity and participation that is rare in traditional theatre. Audience members were directly addressed by the cast and had their biscuits eaten. A unique pre-show mask-making workshop had everyone donning their handmade masks during the performance, adding an extra layer of fun and engagement.
Directed by Rosie Ward, this modern take on “Much Ado About Nothing” begins with Beatrice catching a flight from Luton to Messina, fleeing a broken heart and downing a few brightly coloured cocktails. Messina is portrayed as a lively party town, setting the tone for a production heavier on merriment than melancholy. This modern twist was reminiscent of the 90s romantic comedies, filled with charm and clever humour. The production captured the playful spirit and light-hearted characteristics of rom coms. The clever use of modern-day references and scenarios added an extra layer of enjoyment, appealing to both longtime Shakespeare enthusiasts and those new to his work.
The production brimmed with excellent acting and undeniable charm. The two couples in the play had palpable chemistry, making their romantic entanglements believable and captivating. Their performances were energetic and heartfelt, drawing the audience into their world. Ursula Early’s incredibly funny and energetic Beatrice and Kieran Garland’s warm-hearted Benedick reconnected in scenes teeming with suppressed passion and witty exchanges. Their playful interactions frequently extended into the audience, fostering connections that blurred the boundaries between performers and spectators. I was especially impressed with Londiwe Mthembu’s Hero and Isambard Rawbone’s Claudio, but also with their acting as a team of rap-loving valets ensuring justice is done with a little help from the audience once again.
Andrew Hollingworth’s ingeniously designed set, featuring painted panels and boxes, maintained a brisk pace and created the perfect backdrop for this cheerfully imaginative and captivating production. Patrick Rufey’s playlist, which that had everyone ready to party, included Busted, Dua Lipa, Irma Thomas, Jackie Wilson, and Sophia Loren, as well as his original music.
In summary, the East London Shakespeare Festival’s “Much Ado About Nothing” was a joyous and unforgettable experience. The beautiful outdoor setting, modern interpretation, and interactive elements created a truly unique theatrical event. ELSF continues to unite the community through the magic of Shakespeare, and I eagerly anticipate their future performances. Meanwhile you can still catch them:
- 18-21 July at Clissold Park, N16
- 25-26 July at Valentines Park, IG1
- 27-28 July at Springfield Park, E5
- 31st July at Langthorne Park Amphitheatre, E11
- 3rd August at Wanstead Park, E11