They made a perfect team in ‘DOCTOR WHO‘. They did so again at the Wyndham’s Theatre, London, starring in Shakespeare’s comedy “Much Ado About Nothing“.
And as with all things live, there comes a time when you just have to put your hand up and say – I missed that! Well there will be if you don’t snap up the last pair for the matinee of 3rd September – good luck!
There is definitely something likeable about David Tennant & Catherine Tate acting together. They certainly look very comfortable in each others company and obviously enjoy working together 8 shows a week. The love-hate relationship that the characters of Beatrice & Benedick endure during one of Shakespeare’s popular comedies “Much Ado About Nothing” is a joy to watch.
This production is set in the 1980s on an undisclosed Spanish island. David Tennant is kitted out à la Richard Gere in “An Officer & a Gentleman” which certainly made my friend swoon when he first appeared in his white (tight) naval uniform! The golf cart was a good prop and made for a highly entertaining 10 point turn exit.
I must admit, I did find it hard not to compare it to the wonderful Kenneth Brannaugh film and certainly felt more compassion for Kate Beckinsdale’s Hero as she was flung to the floor by an enraged Claudio. However, this stage production is played for laughs and the actors do a fantastic job of bringing “olde” English into the 21st century making it totally accessible to anyone and everyone.
Certainly no one can use the argument of “not understanding Shakespeare” when watching this play.
For those who want a little more help here it is.
Two young lovers Claudio and Hero are to be married imminently but the devious scheming of a resentful Prince looks set to thwart the nuptials. Meanwhile, marriage seems inconceivable for reluctant lovers Beatrice (Tate) and Benedick (Tennant) whose endless witty sparring threatens to keep them apart forever.
The Financial Times says its…’The feel-good hit of the summer‘.
The Daily Telegraph calls it… ‘A mixture of slapstick and flight that reduces the audience to a state of blissful hilarity….(Josie) Rourke’s production has a freshness and a wit about it that is often irresistible.‘
I am definitely inclined to agreed with both these statements!
Theatre Breaks for Much Ado About Nothing are no longer available
It’s such a funny play and one of my favourites. David Tennant & Catherine Tate play their parts superbly with a strong supporting cast. The Duke is proper EVIL!!!!