Many theatres are capable of producing serviceable interpretations of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies and comedies. The mark of exceptional companies is best measured when they delve deeper into the canon, for example trying their hand at making sense of some of the “problem plays”.
Esther Jun has worked hard to ensure that this 2¾-hour version of Cymbeline is a very entertaining problem. At times, some might feel that she tries to bring too much comedy from unlikely situations, but the drama rarely lets up and the actors are generally at their best when fear or tragedy impinge.
One of the strengths of this company is its willingness to present Shakespeare using realistic period interpretations, rather than jazzing it up. Although some of the body language may be ultra-modern, Michelle Bohn’s gorgeous costumes take us back to ancient Britain, while Echo Zhou has created a simple but beautiful, timeless set which guarantees commendably swift transitions between scenes. There is one concession to modern day mores. Not only is the casting colour-blind but it also strives for gender equality, not necessarily always for the better.
This play is also sometimes known as Cymbeline, King of Britain. However, that does not work when Cymbeline is a Queen, albeit convincingly rendered by Lucy Peacock. To maintain balance, the usual evil Queen is transformed into a sly, scheming Duke. Pleasingly, what seem like drastic changes do not get in the way of a plot that is strange enough anyway.
It helps that Ms Jun is working with a typically strong Stratford cast, who work well as an ensemble in part because the title role is not given to the most significant character. That responsibility falls to his/her daughter Innogen, played by Allison Edwards-Crewe. In typically Shakespearean fashion, she secretly marries Jordin Hall’s Posthumus, who is then forced to flee. Rick Roberts, portraying the Duke, then attempts to foist his comically hapless son Cloten (Christopher Allen) onto the young woman.
That would be enough of a plot for many playwrights, but, in addition, a dastardly Roman, Tyrone Savage’s Iachimo besmirches the good name of Innogen, leading to traumas for all, only rescued following an unbelievable coincidence in Milford Haven.
The play may not make perfect sense, but this fine production effortlessly grips the viewer’s attention and constantly amuses.
This video is available on the Stratfest@home web site in assorted formats up to crystal-clear 4K. The library changes regularly and the pricing is still just £6.44 per month or £64.47 for an annual subscription. It is a great treasure trove that will give fans of high-quality theatre hours of pleasure.