The Merry Wives of Windsor
Melbourne Shakespeare Company has distinguished itself as an ensemble that produces lively and engaging versions of Shakespeare’s plays. Each production continues to consolidate the qualities that define them as an organisation. They are determined to produce environmentally friendly and sustainable theatre. This is clearly evident in their very inventive and pragmatic use of props and costumes. The production design shows a great deal of thought and imagination in bringing both characters and setting to life.
The infusion of popular music into the productions is equally innovative. There is an acute awareness of music history and style and each song is so cleverly selected and inserted into the play, magically helping to drive the narrative forward. The performance style is witty and exuberant which makes the show very dynamic, immersing the audience into the world of the play with ease. This production of The Merry Wives of Windsor refines of all these features and delivers them boldly and confidently.
The songs are all performed with a few acoustic instruments and rely heavily on the extraordinary vocal and musical talent of each of the performers. The songs are instantly recognisable and often performed with exceptional vocals and with great collective unity and rhythm. The sense of an ensemble piece is also accentuated by the very strong and even performances by each of the actors, who are perfectly cast to their roles. This ability to capture the real sprit of the characters that both meet and defy expectations is particularly evident in the roles of Falstaff (Paul Robertson) and Fenton (Sarah Clarke). The overall diversity and inclusivity of the casting is also refreshing.
This is a very mischievous play with a great sense of design for pure entertainment and deliberate efforts to indulge audiences in some of Shakespeare’s bawdiness. Melbourne Shakespeare Company has capitalised on these elements and turned them into a further example of their very clever and original approach to his plays. The Rose Garden is an exceptional venue and expertly managed to take full advantage of the picturesque nature of the location. This show is yet another opportunity to become familiar with Shakespeare’s work in a joyful and fun-filled atmosphere that inspires you to return again and again.
Patricia Di Risio
Photographer: Shae Khreis
Cast
Anne Page: Lucy May Knight
Doctor Caius: John Vizcay-Wilson
Falstaff: Paul Robertson
Fenton: Sarah Clarke
Host: May Jasper
Mistress Ford: Elle Sejean-Allen
Mistress Page: Amanda McKay
Mistress Quickly: Bridget Sweeney
Mr Ford: Chris Broadstock
Mr Page: Tref Gare
Pistol: Andrew Dang
Sir Hugh Evans: Ellis Dolan
Slender: Sebastian Li
Shallow: Alice Albon
Swing: Ben Margalith
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