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Set in the two kingdoms of Sicilia and Bohemia, the story stems from the actions of King Leontes, after he accuses his Queen of adultery and abandons his daughter. The effects of his paranoid rage unfold, resulting in a plot that is just coincidental enough to be believed.
With excellent performances from Golda Rosheuvel, playing the roles of Old Sherpardess and Paulina, and from John Hodgkinson, playing the parts of Antigonus and Autolycus, the audience found themselves with a fixed smile and a ready laugh throughout the more light hearted scenes. Other performances provided us with everything from childlike innocence to fiery passion, all easily believed.
The simple set, unrestricted by walls, was perfect for when in empty foreboding Sicilia and in colourful homely Bohemia. The moods were enhanced by the use of some excellent lighting, effectively sticking to the changing moods in the performance
I was overjoyed to witness a Greek take on Bohemia, recognisable from the start from the music. I instantly knew to expect a passionate family atmosphere. The 1930’s take on costume was interesting, and a little confusing, especially as King Leontes treatment of his family and subjects would not have been allowed in this period.
I have to admit that this is the first time I have watched a Shakespeare play and have stayed focussed throughtout the entire duration. This is largely due to Godwin’s more relaxed take on Shakespeare, where the actors interact with the audience, taking them with them deep into the story.
For those who haven’t had the most enjoyable experiences with Shakespeare, The Winter’s Tale may be a chance for you to understand what your English teachers used to try and explain to you. And for those who live and breathe Shakespeare, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the interpretation of the famous stage direction, ‘exit, pursued by a bear’.
Lori Thurston
East Bergholt High School
5th October 2009
The most famous stage direction ever, was mixed with the king’s (Leontes) life falling apart as well as some simple shepherd folk.
Although Shakespeare not being a favourite of mine, this quirky simplistic adaptation of a Winter’s Tale was fantastic. Also the acting seemed to compliment the Shakespearian dialogue.
The set was extremely simplistic, a rustic tiled floor (slightly raked) with a range from only one piece of set to around four (the most being two tables, a set of lights, and a banquet table). I felt that the set also complimented the acting which being so wordy, seemed to blend well with the minimalist design.
The casting was excellent. I felt that although some of the cast changed characters it was a clean understandable change, not through costume alone but through body language and voice.
I felt there was a strong performance from Vince Leigh as Leontes. I thought he mixed his jealousy, anger and distress with the right balance.
Another good performance was from John Hodgkinson as Autolycus I thought he played well as the blind thieving scavenge. His audience interaction and humour were superb.
I thought that sometimes the shakesperian was lost because of the actors not projecting or/and the actors talking to fast.
Overall I think Schtanhaus/Nuffield Theatre Southampton Co-Production in association with Headlong Theatre Company pulled off a Winter’s Tale. I feel that the set was good, and the casting excellent. A wonderful show
James Wade
East Bergholt High School
5th October 2009
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