A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Review by Sam

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Eleanor Rhodes magical new production of this shakespearean classic bursts to life at the Barbican Theatre this winter.

Shakespeare's much loved comedy follows four young lovers who are faced with the prospect of unhappy marriage or worse. As they flee the court of Athens and stumble into an enchanted forest, the real and fairy worlds collide in one of the most infamous comical fantasies of all time. Rhodes production is easily the most accessible and enjoyable Shakespeare play I have seen on stage for quite some time. She understands the essence of the story itself, and has translated it onto stage for modern audiences in an engaging and contemporary way. The show leans heavily into the mystical story, utilising dazzling set design from Lucy Osborne and mesmerising illusions from John Bulleid to bring this mischievieous world of Athens to life. Matt Daw’s lighting design is nothing short of perfection, aiding the complex staging by illuminating and hiding characters and sets with such immense precision. Much like each creative element of the play itself, the cast are equally flawless.

Matthew Baynton is a comedic delight as Bottom, delivering chaotic hilarity in a performance which gets stronger as the piece progresses. Infact the entire second act ramps up the humour with truly joyous and wonderful performances from an all round talented ensemble of players. Ryan Hutton is hysterically witty as Lysander, delivering a modern interpretation of his role by making it his own. His chemistry with Nicholas Armfield as Demetrius is a delight to behold, with both demonstrating their comedic physicality through phenomenal movement direction. However, it was Andrew Richardson as Oberon who was my personal highlight of the cast. From the moment he enters, he has the most engaging stage presence, delivering his dialogue in such a playful manner with highly flamboyant characterisation.

RSC's latest Shakespeare play is a true visual marvel from begining to end. Combining stunning visuals and side- splitting performances, Rhodes' magical production is the most highly accessible Shakespearean comedy to date.