To borrow a song title from the show, in Shakespeare's day not only did they not have Tippex, Velcro, freezers or synthesisers, they would probably have blanched at the idea of cramming twenty songs, half a dozen monologues, seven sketches and other assorted tomfoolery into one evening’s entertainment.
Yet this is what The Apollo Players have done with great success in their latest production which opened yesterday evening, and they do it: the result is a fast-paced, witty variety revue which showcases the singing, acting, dancing and comedy talents of its cast of nine.
There are plenty of laughs along the way, ranging from Shakespearean Music Hall and Ragtime songs, through comic monologues from disillusioned actors and well-intentioned directors to full length sketches written by the likes of Monty Python, Fry and Laurie and Victoria Wood, all of which had the audience alternately chuckling and groaning at the more corny jokes.
To paraphrase the rather misguided director, this may be Shakespeare, but it’s fun, fun, fun all the way. In fact, the Bard simply acts as a common theme, and it is certainly not a requirement that the audience likes – or even knows – his work.
The teamwork between the cast is tight: each has his or her own chance to take the spotlight but many of the best moments feature the whole company singing, dancing and acting in roles suited to their individual talents.
The energy is sustained through the evening, movements between pieces are slick and the audience is entertained throughout.
Highlights of the first night were ‘Carrying a Torch’, an amusing but sweet song sung by two women whose appreciation of Shakespeare’s work is heavily influenced by the handsome young man playing the spear carrier; a sketch in which the actress performing the Romeo and Juliet balcony scene thinks she’s Lady Macbeth; four –ahem – ladies mourning the death of Sir John Falstaff in song and the hilarious story of a beautiful American wishing to see Stratford and the lengths a young man goes to in order to satisfy her desires....
However, the greatest strength of the show is its sheer variety – if one song or sketch fails to tickle your fancy, there will be another along in a minute or two, sure to be to your taste.
The show runs until July 11th, with performances tonight and every night from Tuesday to Saturday next week.
To paraphrase yet another song: Let’s go to the Apollo and do it – and do it standing up! Or sitting down, if you prefer – but do go along and be entertained!
