To commemorate the 400th Anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, The Shakespeare Revue is enjoying a welcome revival. Originally produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company back in 1994, this fresh, updated version is touring prior to a West End run and currently visiting Malvern Festival Theatre.
Lizzie Bea, Jordan Lee Davis, Alex Morgan, Alex Scott Fairley and Anna Stolli make up the dynamic cast with their talented Musical Director, Oli Jackson, accompanying them on piano. Each performer skilfully delivers a wonderful selection of Shakespearean inspired skits and songs from comedy icons Victoria Wood, Alan Bennett, Maureen Lipman, Monty Python, Noël Coward, Cole Porter, Fry & Laurie and musical theatre favourites, Stephen Sondheim and Stiles & Drewe.
The creative genius of Christopher Luscombe and Malcom McKee have devised a charming show with clever, funny and often touching scenes, slickly pieced to together and perfectly executed. You don’t have to have a broad knowledge of Shakespeare’s works to enjoy this revue as it is mostly centred around his more well known plays such as, Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, however, the greater your understanding of the bard of Startford-upon-Avon, the funnier it will be. The revue format is very simple and focuses on the actors and the material, with no set and minimal lighting. It won’t be everyone’s cup of tea but it is definitely a joyous evening of quality entertainment. ★★★★☆ Rob Holcroft 1st September 2016
