Shakespeare is one of the world’s greatest writers. However, the challenge for any company performing his work is to make sure the audience can follow the story, despite the use of old English language.
Cream-Faced Loons rose to the occasion in their performance of Twelfth Night this evening. The audience are taken to the Illyria Hotel, where the Feste and the Fools are holding a Twelfth Night party. Feste is singing the Twelve Days of Christmas as the audience enter. The scene is set from the very beginning and I must admit the hotel setting is an excellent concept and works well in this performance space.
This production featured a bit of gender bending, Malvolio became Malvolia and Antonio became Antonia. Sadly, I cannot give individual praise to the actors in this performance as no programmes were given.
The room was set out in cabaret style, this lended itself well to the performance. However, there were a few occasions that I couldn’t get a clear view of what was happening. The abuse of Malvolia being the main one.
In general, this was good performance, well delivered and it was always very clear to tell what was happening. Obviously as with most Shakespeare performed in the modern day, pieces have to be cut to ensure the audience leave at a sensible time.
Given the name ‘Cream-Faced Loons’, I am assuming this is a theatre company that specialises in Shakespeare. Twelfth Night is a good production and I look forward to seeing more of their work in the future.
Reviewer: Francis McKevitt
Reviewed: 5th January 2017
North West End Rating: ★★★★
