… speeches glitter in the rust …

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A high spirited production by RSC veteran Gregory Doran which brings out the best in this most conflicted of Shakespeare’s plays.

In a Mad Max-ian theatre of mis-matched armour and steampunk motorbikes, the glittering speeches of truth and power are spoken against the rusting detritus of war. Adjoa Andoh plays a sinuous, energetic Ulysses, full of guile and Oliver Ford Davies is a sympathetic, over obliging Pandorus; and the lovers, Amber James and Gavin Fowler, are sure footed and well matched. Add the oafish Theo Ogundipe as Ajax and the pretty boy, Andy Apollo, as Achilles and it is a wonderful evening of theatre.

Gregory Doran‘s decision to cast a 50/50 gender spilt works extremely well, adding depth and texture to the characters, and Evelyn Glennie‘s percussion score complements the design.

Troilus and Cressida is at the RSC, Stratford Upon Avon until 17 November; it will also be broadcast live to cinemas on 14 November. (Running time: 2 hrs 50 mins + 20 mins interval). Further details can be found on their website here.

Image : RSC/Helen Maybanks.