Twelfth Night
Written by William Shakespeare, Adapted by Ellen McDougall, Performed by the NYT REP Company
The NYT REP Company’s adaptation of Twelfth Night offers a fresh take on Shakespeare's classic comedy. Notably, the production has an inclusive and welcoming environment, with a 'Chill Out' space available for the audience before and during the performance. This thoughtful approach includes ear defenders and earplugs for those who may need them, along with a relaxed attitude toward seating and audience noise. While I was there, the audience felt settled and quiet, with a few smaller children climbing over the chairs in their excitement.
The cast is simply fantastic, particularly when considering that this is a youth theatre production. The energy and commitment they bring to the stage is nothing short of inspiring. Selorm Adonu as Sir Toby delivers a commanding and engaging performance, his voice resonating with both authority and mischief. However, it is Emily Casey as Malvolio who truly steals the show. Her portrayal is hilarious, capturing the character's transformation with flair. The iconic yellow cross-gartered moment is reinvented with a burlesque twist, as Casey unravels herself from a giant present in a sequence that had the audience in stitches.
The role of the fool, Feste, is cleverly divided between Dominic Semwanga (Fes) and Megan Keaven (Tay). This dual portrayal adds an excitement to the character, heightening the comedy and offering new layers to the interactions. Both actors bring charm and wit, creating a memorable duo that captures the essence of Shakespeare's jester.
At first glance, the advertising material for the production raised some doubts about the design concept. However, once in the theatre, the vision came to life in a way that was both cohesive and striking. Ethan Cheek’s set design is a curiosity, with upside-down Christmas trees suspended from the ceiling. These unconventional elements are not merely decorative; they are ingeniously integrated into the performance, becoming hiding spots and evolving as the show progresses. The visual impact is both festive and whimsical, perfectly complementing the tone of the play.
The costume design is equally noteworthy, blending classic and contemporary styles to create a vibrant aesthetic. The mix of eras and colours gives the production a timeless yet modern feel, making it visually engaging and accessible to a broad audience.
One of the production’s standout features is its music. Naomi Hammerton, serving as Musical Director, Composer, and Sound Designer, has truly worked magic. The music breathes life into the festivities, elevating key moments and adding emotional depth. The soundscape transitions seamlessly between scenes, enhancing the atmosphere and drawing the audience further into the world of Twelfth Night. It’s a celebration of youth theatre at its finest, and a festive treat not to be missed.
This show was reviewed on the 7th December 2024 at the National Youth Theatre, London where it runs until the 18th December 2024. Tickets available here: Twelfth Night - National Youth Theatre
Review written by Valentine Gale-Sides
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Photo credit: Helen Murray
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