There is nothing more fun than a wildly enthusiastic group of drama students, hyped up on Shakespeare and all of the good work that they have created.
This group of thespians from Oklahoma University have scoured the Shakespeare texts and come up with a familiar handful of monologues from the “bad guys”.
They have found most of the major and a few of the minor ones. The audience will recognize King Lear, Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, Shylock, Richard III and others. I’m sure they missed a few of the villainous monologues; it is much more difficult to find the villains in the comedies. (Beatrice and Benedict sparring might fit in somewhere.)
This production is well polished. The research and rehearsals are in evidence. Had they been given more time and free rein, I have no doubt they could have filled another hour. Their delight is so contagious. They understand the words and meaning and relay them gently.
They cover such topics as: why are they bad, nature vs. nurture, were they born bad, can we fault the audience? The interspersed dialogue that they created knits together the monologues and the intentions. Their remarks that link each following monologue are along the lines of “Wow.” and “Would hate to be around him.” and “Having a bad day” or just the knowing look to the audience.
Their energy forgives them everything. Shakespeare’s character study will come in future studies. Interesting to imagine what they will be able to do with these monologues on a serious night when they understand the characters behind them. That’s a show I’d like to see. I have no doubt that they will put in the same work, dedications and study.
It’s a wonderful exercise for drama students. And what fun for the audience.