Tim Crouch to Perform I, MALVOLIO at Arts Centre Melbourne, Jan 6-11

"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon 'em" (2.5.144-146), Malvolio, Twelfth Night

So says Malvolio, a bit-player in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, who greatness continually eludes. His pomposity, belligerence is laughable to everyone in the play, and his longing to be a lover and beloved leaves him wishing revenge upon all and sundry.

But who is Malvolio? Tim Crouch, "One of the smartest artists making theatre in Britain now" (Kulturflash) sought to find out. Crouch is a specialist in adapting Shakespeare for contemporary audiences. Through his acclaimed works such as I Caliban, I, Peaseblossom and I, Banquo and now I, Malvolio, Crouch has placed a spotlight on some of Shakespeare's most maligned, unloved and unlikely characters.

By focusing on the characters that aren't dukes, queens, or even lovers, Crouch allows contemporary theatre audiences (and particularly young people) a way into some of Shakespeare's most beloved texts. Crouch explores characters who are maligned, who live on the fringes of their texts and who will never participate in the glories of an epic ending. Instead, he breathes new life into old stories, both to benefit those audience members who find the scale of Shakespeare intimidating and even incomprehensible, and for those who simply seek a new perspective on the Bard.

I, Malvolio is no exception. It re-imagines Twelfth Night from the point of view of Shakespeare's pent-up steward. I, Malvolio is a hilarious and often unsettling rant from a man 'notoriously wronged'.

A story of lost dignity, prudery, practical jokes and bullying, I, Malvolio is a one-man act of storytelling alchemy that draws us deep into the madness of Shakespeare's classic comedy.

I, Malvolio sold out at both the Brisbane and Sydney Festivals -- don't miss this opportunity to see a master of contemporary theatre in action.

DETAILS:

Arts Centre Melbourne presents
I, Malvolio
6- 11 January 2015, Fairfax Theatre
Tickets from $30** (additional fees and charges may apply)
NOW ON SALE!
TO BOOK: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au

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