Complete works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) – theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), performed by the talented trio from 3 Witty fools—Sam Milner, Barnaby, and Henry Williams—delivered a whirlwind of laughter and sheer entertainment. Based on the book with the same title, this show is a condensed and comedic take on all of Shakespeare’s plays, and the team did a fantastic job bringing it to life on stage.

The show kicked off with a hilarious rendition of Romeo and Juliet, setting the tone for an evening filled with clever humour and lively performances. Juliet’s exaggerated reactions to Romeo’s declarations of love were side-splitting, and her over-the-top manner of ending her life was a highlight, leaving the audience roaring with laughter. The chemistry between the performers was undeniable, and their ability to balance the absurdity of the situation while still capturing the essence of the original play was truly impressive. The entire audience was engaged, laughing constantly as the performers expertly navigated the nuances of Shakespeare’s text with a comedic twist.

Sam Milner, Barnaby, and Henry Williams proved to be a formidable team, each bringing their own unique flair to the performance. Their portrayal of each character, regardless of gender or role, was not only humorous but also showed a deep understanding of the material they were parodying. The trio’s dynamic energy was infectious, keeping the audience captivated from start to finish.

One of the standout moments of the evening was the humorous interpretation of Cleopatra’s death in Antony and Cleopatra. What is traditionally a poignant and dramatic scene was turned on its head, as Cleopatra’s demise was portrayed in such an exaggerated and farcical manner that it was impossible not to laugh. Another brilliant moment was the side-splitting comparison of Hamlet with The Lion King, which highlighted the similarities between the two stories in a hilariously absurd way. The audience couldn’t stop laughing as the performers drew parallels between the Shakespearean tragedy and the beloved Disney classic, making the connection feel both clever and comical.

Overall, the Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) was a brilliant blend of wit, satire, and slapstick humour, all expertly executed by Sam Milner, Barnaby, and Henry Williams. The trio’s ability to condense the vast works of Shakespeare into a 50 minute show while maintaining a high level of comedic energy is commendable. Their performance not only entertained but also provided a fresh, humorous perspective on the Bard’s classics. For anyone looking to enjoy a night of laughter and fun, this show, based on the book with the same title, is an absolute must-see.

Reviewer: Saira Kunjuvalappil (Saira ks)

Reviewed: 13th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: