In their 30th anniversary production, Northern Broadsides bring their bold, refreshing style to Shakespeare’s most musical and much-loved comedy for the very first time.
In a stylish but stifling court, where the Duke is all powerful and brute strength is championed over basic human decency, the high-spirited Rosalind and devoted cousin Celia are no longer welcome.
When they escape into the forest in disguise, they bump into the recent object of Rosalind’s affection, Orlando, leading to an elaborate game of fluid identity where all the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players. As the seasons change in this magical place, normal roles dissolve and assumptions are turned on their head in this celebration of the transformative power of love and the natural world, featuring some of Shakespeare’s most vivid characters and memorable poetry.
With a cast of 12 fabulous Northern actors, Northern Broadsides take to the road once more in a production by Laurie Sansom which captures the sheer joy of live performance and the crazy power of love to change the world.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“A funny, moving, powerful version of the much-loved comedy”
Beff Shuff Blog
★ ★ ★ ★
“The most gender-fluid Shakespeare I have ever seen”
Whats On Midlands
“Captivated from beginning to end”
Yeah Lifestyle
“Nuanced and stylish”
The Stage
A Northern Broadsides and New Vic Theatre Co-production
Cast
Company
Due to illness, the roles of Duke Frederick / Duke Senior will be played by Tom Shaw. The roles of Oliver and Reverend Martext will be played by Aron Julius.
Composer Rob Bentall
Assistant Director Hallam Breen
Movement Director Jamaal Burkmar
Casting Director Lucy Casson CDG
Fight Director Bethan Clark
Sound Designer James Earls-Davis
Lighting Director Kieron Johnson
Designer E.M. Parry
Director Laurie Sansom