Measure For Measure
Union Theatre
Reviewed on Friday 5th July 2013
Synopsis: "Fearing the laws of Vienna have become a mockery, its wily duke appoints a deputy, the officious Angelo, to stamp out sexual excess – and then goes undercover to study the results. Angelo's ruthless ban on sex outside of marriage brings a reign of terror to young lovers and the city's brothels but the tyrant has a weakness that could destroy him. Closely observed by the Duke, the beautiful and unworldly Isabella arrives to plead with Angelo for her condemned brother's life and the stage is set for an extraordinary three-way battle of wits, will and survival."
Measure For Measure is not as well known as some of Shakespeare's other plays so I was somewhat intrigued to see this production.
I often find myself writing about how each time I step foot inside the Union Theatre it has been transformed, but this time the performance space is completely unrecognisable. Philip Lindley's clever design is astoundingly brilliant.
I often find myself writing about how each time I step foot inside the Union Theatre it has been transformed, but this time the performance space is completely unrecognisable. Philip Lindley's clever design is astoundingly brilliant.
The first act is a theatrical experience. Without giving too much away, the audience are ushered through the theatre and are made to stand while watching the first part of the action unfold. The first act is intensely gripping and the cast's interaction with the audience is superb. I felt like I was part of the action, constantly having to turn around to see what was going on.
Unfortunately the second and third acts are a little weaker. Scenes drag on and are performed more traditionally. I wish more risks were taken throughout these two acts as the experience really does come to an anti-climax.
Measure For Measure can be interpreted in many different ways and probably means different things to different people, but I find the play a little underwhelming. Of course the language flows beautifully and is performed by a strong cast but Measure For Measure failed to grab my attention and draw me in.
A standout performance comes from Natalie Harman as Pompeia. She seduces the audience with her enormous stage presence. Strong performances also come from Anne Smith as Mistress Overdone, Laura Hyde as Marianna and Paul Critoph who does a brilliant job at leading the cast as Angelo.
Although Measure For Measure is described as a Shakespearean comedy, do not be fooled - it is not funny. The occasional line is a little witty but overall Measure For Measure is a dark and depressing piece of theatre.
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins
Measure For Measure runs at the Union Theatre until 27th July 2013.
Visit www.uniontheatre.biz for further information and tickets
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