Choice: Theatre

David Benedict
Wednesday 04 March 1998 19:02 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Much Ado About Nothing, Sheffield Lyceum (0114-276 9922) 7.45pm

It's got everything: sex and (emotional) violence, deception and self- deception, love and hatred, finesse and tomfoolery, high comedy and the stab of tragedy. I've never understood why this comedy is not as well- loved as, say A Midsummer Night's Dream. Still, like buses, you wait for ages and then three come along at once. First off was the shameful, atmosphere- free RSC production which I caught up with it on its London revival. I'm sorry, but it's grim. I was utterly unmoved at what is probably my favourite play: an awful lot of "acting", precious little characterisation and even fewer laughs. (I've seen audiences convulsed at this play.) Later this year, Peter Hall will direct it as part of his West End repertory season but in between we have the genuine excitement of a new production by Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod for Cheek by Jowl starring Saskia Reeves (above) and Matthew Macfayden. David Benedict

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in