BWW Reviews: TWELFTH NIGHT, Crucible, Sheffield, 23 September 2014

Twelfth Night is the latest Shakespeare production from Sheffield Theatres, this time running as a co-production with English Touring Theatre which will tour nationally after its Crucible launch.

Jonathan Mumby directs this fresh and creative take on the play, which incorporates great design work from Colin Richmond and atmospheric lighting from Chris Davey.

Whilst the whole production is lively, unusual and engaging, particular mention should be given to Grant Olding's composition work, turning the play's songs into lilting folk ballads sung with real feeling by Brian Protheroe's Feste - a captivating and charismatic performance - possibly the stand-out performance here, although all of the cast are very strong, giving dynamic, hilarious and emotive interpretations of their characters. The production is infused with energy throughout which never drops in pace or interest.

Very occasionally some lines are rushed or lost into the backdrop, but this is a small quibble in a production that is a sensitive and vital interpretation of the well-loved play.

Twelfth Night is at the Crucible, Sheffield, until 18 October and then tours nationwide throughout 2014.

Photograph - Brian Protheroe as Feste, Hugh Ross as Malvolio and Rebecca Johnson as Olivia (L-R)A Sheffield Theatres and English Touring Theatre co-production. Photo by Mark Douet.