Sunday, February 27, 2011

Conquering Scotland

Edinburgh Spotlight had reserves about Richard III, but still mentioned Dominic Tighe and Jon Trenchard for their portrayals of Elizabeth and Anne. The Comedy of Errors was more popular, garnering four stars for a "highly entertaining and clear story-telling extravaganza" and performances that highlighted "how strong this ensemble is."

STV praised Richard III for "breathing new life and gallows humour into an old classic," contrasting the casting of Tony Bell and Robert Hands for this show and Comedy as but two examples of a "cast deserving of all the plaudits that come their way." Jon Trenchard's musical arrangements and Richard Clothier's "mesmerizing" performance also receive their due.

Scotsman thinks Richard III may be a bit too busy, but concludes its review by saying "we do need Shakespeare's magnificent and subtle poetry about the horrible logic of political ambition, cast adrift from all moral restraint; and in the end...this production delivers that shuddering poetic climax, with great force." On the other hand, it found Comedy of Errors "enjoys every nuance of the comedy" and had strong performances from Dugald Bruce-Lockhart and Robert Hands.

The Herald Scotland gives Richard four stars, as the company "never loses sight of the play’s inherent seriousness," despite all the playful flourishes.

PlayShakespeare is enthusiastic about both productions, trumpeting that Richard III  "is a sight to behold, and one not easily forgotten" while Comedy of Errors "offers wicked entertainment combined with a clear rendering of the script."

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