Tag: London Shakespeare

East London Shakespeare Festival (ELSF) brings Much Ado About Nothing to London

a group of people holding up a group of posters

There are lots of events in London parks throughout the summer, but few are so purposeful in their mission in injecting the wholesome feeling that comes from community theatre as the East London Shakespeare Festival. In parks dotted all around London this summer, the Shakespeare theatre company will be showing one of the bard’s most popular plays, Much Ado About Nothing. And if you’ve got kids, bring them along! The group is keen on getting kids involved to plant those seeds of interest and enjoyment of Shakespeare’s work from a young age. They put on some crafty options that kids go wild for. It’s the kind of thing that just makes you smile. And the cast do a truly excellent job of blending contemporary reality with Shakespearean whimsy that you can very easily get into. Throw in a little crowd participation and dance choreography that is as funny as it is engaging, there really is something for everyone. If you’re not a theatre or community theatre-goer particularly, my suggestion is to throw off your preconceptions, go and surprise yourself. In Shakespeare’s delightful comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, audiences are transported to the enchanting setting of a modern-day Messina where sun-soaked mischief and romance intertwine under the Mediterranean stars. Filled with witty banter, clever trickery, and heartwarming moments, this opulent tale showcases the triumph of love amidst playful deceptions, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of human emotions and relationships set against a backdrop of timeless charm and laughter. The East London Shakespeare Festival is known for its… Read More

East London Shakespeare Festival announces Much Ado

SIX Musical women theatre singing

The East London Shakespeare Festival (ELSF), under the imaginative steersmanship of Ursula Early and Rosie Ward, co-artistic directors and the creative force behind the company, is poised to bring a fresh breeze of dramatic art to the parks and open spaces of East London this summer. Their adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing not only promises to be a visual delight set against a modern, summery Messina backdrop but also aims to strike a chord with audiences through its contemporary approach to Shakespeare’s work. The choice of the play speaks volumes about ELSF’s commitment to delivering performances that resonate with love, laughter, and the complexities of human relationships, drawing a direct line to the comedic heart of Shakespeare’s timeless narratives. This summer’s production is not just a retelling but a reimagining, infused with modern romantic comedy elements, promising an engaging blend of Shakespeare’s classic wit with the allure of contemporary romance narratives. The decision to integrate the character of Margaret as Messina’s resident lounge singer, thereby incorporating the Balthasar role, is a testament to ELSF’s innovative approach to adapting Shakespeare for modern audiences. This inventive twist not only adds a unique flavour to the production but also sets the stage for a truly immersive experience, underscored by music and the Mediterranean ambiance. Furthermore, ELSF’s ambition to make Shakespeare accessible and enjoyable to a wider audience, particularly to the residents of East London, reflects in their extensive community engagement program designed to run alongside the tour. By offering a plethora of activities and engaging directly with… Read More