Michelle Terry the new Artistic Director of the Globe Theatre has announced her first season in charge of the replica Elizabethan Playhouse on London’s South Bank.
Here’s a beginners guide to each play in the repertoire.
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
This tragedy explores the inner turmoil of prince Hamlet challenged by his father’s ghost to avenge his murder, a crime committed by Hamlet’s mother and uncle who now rule the kingdom. Expect introspection interspersed with politics and violence.
April 25 to August 26, with press day on May 17
As You Like It by William Shakespeare
A romantic comedy about too princesses banished to live amongst a host of colourful characters in a forest. Rosalind disguises herself as a boy to discover if her boyfriend really loves her. Expect clowning, romance and mistaken identity.
May 2 to August 26, with press day on May 17
The Two Noble Kinsmen by John Fletcher and William Shakespeare
A curious piece about the murderous rivalry between two former friends who are now fighting for the same woman. Expect betrayal, and grand declarations of young love.
May 25 to June 30, press night May 30
The Winter’s Tale by William Shakespeare
The beautiful and poignant tale of a kings irrational rage at his queen who he wrongly accuses of having an affair. All is resolved when the next generation grow to bring harmony to the muddle. Expect towering rage and to shed a tear at the happy ending.
June 22 to October 14, press night June 27
Othello by William Shakespeare
Stage and screen star Mark Rylance plays a ruthless white soldier determined to destroy his black superior by convincing him his wife is unfaithful. Expect a chilling study of racial tension, evil and psychological torture.
July 20 to October 13, press night August 1
Love’s Labour’s Lost by William Shakespeare
Two groups of students, one male and the other female, are challenged to avoid each other’s company but young love and high spirits ensure everybody finds a mate. Expect scholastic word play and undergraduate pranks.
August 23 to September 15, press night August 29
There’s new writing too at this appealing, bustling venue which also serves great food. A trip to The Globe is a must for any tourists interested in theatre and general theatre goers curious to discover how Shakespeare’s work would originally been presented.
Expect a summer of powerful stories and complex characters in magnificent plays.
Hooray! From the end of March 2018 the West End is going to get a little sassier, more cynical and fierce with a revival of the celebrated 1996 Broadway production of CHICAGO by the song writing team behind CABARET, Kander and Ebb.