Movies

Globe’s slimline Falstaff is a half-fat hero, in a Merry Wives Of Windsor that’s not quite merry enough

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The Merry Wives Of Windsor (Shakespeare’s Globe)

Verdict: Moderately merry

Similar to the grandiose operas by Richard Wagner, Shakespeare’s comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor boasts several outstanding scenes… and extended acts that are rather lengthy.

The story revolves around Sir Jack Falstaff, who attempts amorous advances but carries an unflattering amount of weight, with a waist circumference estimated to be around two yards.

He is, as he says himself, ‘as subject to heat as butter’. And we can all relate to that right now.

Excited about the possibility of winning over a few women from Windsor, specifically Misses Page and Ford, our Jack feels jubilant as it seems he has successfully captured their attention.

However, the women intend to give Falstaff a good lesson, as Mistress Ford’s envious spouse, Frank, covertly wishes to discover Falstaff in compromising circumstances.

In an attempt to make it more contemporary, Sean Holmes’s fresh production cleverly solves the issue of Falstaff being portrayed as overweight by having a fit and attractive actor, George Fouracres, wear a fat suit for the role.

He is adorned in an eye-catching red liturgical outfit consisting of a doublet and hose, making him stand out conspicuously. Fouracres exaggerates his jowls with a lush, herbaceous beard, and uses an extensive, flirtatious repertoire of comedic eye rolls.

The two women, Emma Pallant playing Mrs. Page and Katherine Pearce portraying Mrs. Ford, might appear more cheerful in their secretive scheme. However, Pallant’s feelings for colossal Jack create a predicament for her.

The wives, played by Emma Pallant as Mrs. Page and Katherine Pearce as Mrs. Ford, could seem more joyous in their deception. But Pallant is stuck because she harbors feelings for the towering Jack.

Jolyon Coy is more fun as Mr Ford, whose plans to trap Falstaff repeatedly rebound on him.

Excruciating subplots pass in a blur of regional accents and false beards.

Cutting half an hour would be a small mercy — especially the random Welsh parson teaching grammar.

Yet, the visually appealing setup with Liberty-themed wallpaper and coordinated attire captivates us, while the clever use of physical humor helps to keep the performance engaging.

The Merry Wives Of Windsor is on at Shakespeare’s Globe until September 20. 

 

Noughts & Crosses (Open Air Theatre, Regent’s Park)

Verdict: Nought great

I can’t help but feel disheartened about the rather lackluster screen rendition of Malorie Blackman’s captivating dystopian novel for young adults, Noughts & Crosses. It seems to have been crafted with a touch too much complacency and not enough passion, much like a tame imitation of the timeless love story between Romeo and Juliet.

Black oligarchs rule a segregated society where white people are bitterly oppressed.

In this setting, Corinna Brown’s character, known as Sephy, develops feelings for a white classmate named Callum, portrayed by Noah Valentine. However, their relationship becomes complicated when Callum gets entangled with freedom activists.

Originally staged at the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2007 and adapted by the new director of the Almeida Theatre, Dominic Cooke, this melodramatic tale maintains a good pace.

However, while Shakespeare’s narrative shone brightly with poetic brilliance, this work can be seen as a prosaic imitation, leaning towards white supremacist themes.

While Shakespeare’s story was beautifully illuminated by poetry, this version is a simplified, less artistic depiction that seems to promote white power.

In a more uplifting portrayal, one might say that Callum’s humble, hardworking family could serve as an inspiring example for those advocating for better social support systems, rather than being associated with any particular political party like the BNP. It’s unlikely Blackman intended such an association.

Brown is a lively, young character named Sephy, who’s both bold and shy. On the other hand, young Callum in Valentine’s company is shrewd on the streets but tender-hearted.

Or

Brown is an energetic young individual called Sephy, who’s assertive yet timid. Meanwhile, young Callum, alongside Valentine, is smart about city life while also being compassionate.

Tinuke Craig’s production features 16 two-dimensional figures, set against what appears to be a training ground for firefighters, complete with towering concrete structures and corroded staircases.

Eagerly taking my leave as performers conveyed their feelings through toppled furniture, I delighted in slipping away into the soothing evening air of Regent’s Park.

Noughts & Crosses runs at the Open Air Theatre until July 26.

 

Wilko: Love And Death And Rock ‘n’ Roll (Leicester Square Theatre)

Verdict: Electric 

The late Wilko Johnson, previously known as John Wilkinson and a former guitarist for Dr Feelgood, might have discovered his ideal final resting spot – an underground theater situated near Leicester Square.

It’s clear that he would have chosen a more risqué option. However, given that many fans of the ’70s rocker are now retired and receiving pensions, they can certainly appreciate some of the most luxurious seating in the West End.

From these, they can enjoy a show, written by Jonathan Maitland, that is half play, half gig.

The life story of the eccentric Wilko was initially broadcasted in Hornchurch just a year ago, presenting a far more refined backdrop.

Raised post-war, he had a contentious relationship with his father, a deep affection for the blues guitar, and a devoted girlfriend named Irene who remained steadfast through their tumultuous years of rock ‘n’ roll and drug-induced highs and lows, ultimately becoming his wife.

Johnson, the punk guitarist, had everyone from Bob Geldof to Paul Weller admiring him. Even Roger Daltrey, known for The Who, recorded an album with him in 2014 despite a terminal pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Interestingly, it was found that he wasn’t supposed to survive, but that’s a remarkable story about Wilko on its own.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase it as follows: In the revamped West End production of Maitland’s play, the narrative is now balanced between Johnson’s adventures and his musical journey. The repertoire features tunes such as “He Did It Right,” which was initially released by Dr Feelgood post Wilko’s exit from the group, causing considerable frustration for him. Additionally, we delve into the era when Daltrey was a prominent figure.

Most memorable, though, is Johnson Willis’s performance as Wilko.

Willis portrays the guitarist with a whine reminiscent of Canvey Island that’s even more piercing than the original, according to some. Yet, he emphasizes Wilko’s poetic inclinations, being a previous student of English literature. However, he also delivers an impressive depiction of Johnson’s live guitar playing, which a friend of mine, who had the privilege of witnessing it, found breathtakingly ‘electrifying’.

Watch out for a roster of guest stars including Jon Otway, Billy Bragg and Wreckless Eric.

Until July 27 (leicestersquaretheatre.com).

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2025-07-10 21:04

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