Many things are impossible. Sneezing with your eyes open, counting to infinity, keeping a toddler entertained with Shakespeare? The Rubbish Shakespeare company claimed this to be possible.. and they didn’t disappoint. Appropriate for ages 4-104. Intrigued, I had the pleasure of watching A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Hope Street Theatre. The small company worked well together. Made up for four actors in total they had an obvious passion for storytelling. Disaster struck when there were too many roles for the actors to fill. Never fear the rubbish Shakespeare Company had some funny and clever tricks up their sleeves. The costumes were basic, but fun and used to their full advantage, easily defining the actors during multi rolling. But which one is Helena and which one is Hermia?
The Rubbish Shakespeare Company was founded in 2007, by Liverpool John Moores University students with the mission to make Shakespeare accessible and riveting for all. Regardless of any previous knowledge and understanding of the Bards work. The actors gave a warm welcome to the audience when entering the theatre. Throughout the performance they spoke with perfect diction and comic timing, remained focused and never broke character. Lee Hithersay, Mark Lea, Thomas Galashan and certainly Alex MacDonald gave it their all, including blood, sweat and tears. The story was easy to follow, full of energy and thrown together with a lot of mischief, bubbles, roller skating, water fights, chants and audience participation. It was the perfect treat for all the family. Who knew educational theatre could be so much fun?
A Midsummer Night’s Dream continue their tour to Ordsall Hall 21st of July 2019 and completes the last stretch at the Pleasance Theatre: Pleasance Courtyard at the Famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival 31st of July - 26th August. This production followed on from their previous successful run of Romeo and Juliet. I am excited to find out what mischief they will bring to their Shakespeare adventure. https://www.rubbishshakespearecompany.com/
Reviewer: Allie McKillop
Reviewed: 13th July 2019
North West End Rating: ★★★★
