Yesterday I decided to go and watch The Winters Tale at the Crucible theatre in Sheffield. That place where they do the snooker.
I’ll be honest, I was skeptical. I mean 3 hours is a long time to watch anything, right? But you know what … I kind of dig the theatre now.
What impressed me most, apart from the giant sheep’s head, was the quality of the acting. The funny thing is when I say Colin Firths brother was in the play you automatically assume he’s the show stealer. Not in my opinion, Daniel Lapaine was off the charts. He left a lasting impression for sure. That isn’t taking anything away from Jonathan Firth who delivered a good performance.
Truth be told it would be difficult to go into detail about who performed well. Everyone did great. From Claire Price as the tragic queen Hermione, to Christian Dixon’s performance as Dion/that awesome bear, all the way to the Keir Charles as the lovable thief. Who I hear learned the ukulele just for his role!
Also a shout out is deserved for the incredible production values. How can you forget that sheep’s head? Seriously, it was awesome. The set design was a real highlight. Minimalistic in some ways grand in others.
Getting a chance to talk with the actors and staff after was cool. The theatre crowd are great to talk with, seriously, they love their craft and are a real community.
Go and try theatre. Go and watch A Winters Tale.
Here are some details:
‘It is requir’d you do awake your faith’
In an act of wild and passionate jealousy a man tears his family apart. Now, only a miracle can mend his pain.
Shakespeare’s story explores how redemption is always possible, albeit at a price.
Directed by Sheffield Theatres’ Associate Director Paul Miller (Hamlet, The Daughter-In-Law, Democracy), The Winter’s Tale stars Daniel Lapaine (Muriel’s Wedding) and Claire Price (The Daughter-In-Law, The Pride) as Leontes and Hermione – a royal couple whose relationship changes history.