Review of Twelfth Night

Introduction

Part of a series of Thames Television Shakespeare productions this one is produced by the Renaissance Theatre Company. Originally directed by Kenneth Branagh this was filmed for television in the far off days of 1988.

Once again a variety of actors some better know than others grace the screen Richard Briers appears in some rather large teeth as the hapless Malvolio. The haughty and overbearing servant is shamelessly set up by Sir Toby Belch to make overtures to Olivia (Caroline Langrishe) lady of the house.

Meanwhile the Count de Orsino (Christopher Ravenscroft) finds himself increasingly attracted to his manservant `erm Viola who, happily, is a woman in disguise. Orsino sends Viola (Frances Barber) to court Olivia and Olivia also falls for `him`-is that clear?

Yes it`s Shakespeare at his best with disguises, merry japes and all`s well that end`s well (no that`s another play).

It also stars Anton Lesser as the Jester, Feste, and Abigail McKern as Maria, the maidservant.

Video

Not the best quality being filmed for transmission on the television low expectations are best.

The sets are limited and quite bare but of course all this is artistically appropriate.

Audio

If music be the food of love…stop now mate.

The accompanying music is dreary apart from a ballad Come Away Death with music adapted from a Paul McCartney song called Once Upon a Long Ago. Different at least.

Features

Just access to individual scenes folks!

Conclusion

Another to add to the list of worthwhile-to-watch plays. Cheaper than a theatre ticket it would be unlikely to get this line-up even at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre these days.

Again it is a matter of taste as even Shakespeare comedies can be rather heavy going and `worthy` rather than enjoyable. The contrast between comedy of mistaken identity and the baiting of the unfortunate Malvolio makes this doubly intriguing with a brilliant performance by Richard Briers.

This is also a useful study aid to those who prefer to watch rsather than read. Individual scenes can be accessed from the main menu making it extremely student friendly. I wish they`d had DVDs when I were a lass!