This is Shakespeare as I’ve never seen it before. From the moment I took my seat, it was clear that director Jamie Lloyd’s production of Much Ado About Nothing at Theatre Royal Drury Lane would be anything but traditional. Even before the show started, the theatre was pulsing with 90s music, creating a party atmosphere as staff danced along while holding up signs reminding the audience to switch off their phones.
The setting of the play is reimagined, shifting from soldiers returning home after war to being located in the vibrant energy of a nightclub. This not only modernises the story but also infuses the production with music, movement, and an infectious sense of joy.
I’m sure literary scholars may disagree but I’ve often felt that many of Shakespeare’s plays suffer from an overabundance of subplots that distract from the central narrative. Jamie Lloyd avoids this by streamlining the story. His version of Much Ado About Nothing omits certain characters and side plots to sharpen the focus on the fiery romance between Benedick (Tom Hiddleston) and Beatrice (Hayley Atwell). Claudio (James Phoon) and Hero’s (Mara Huf) love story is streamlined to make it more direct and impactful, though less prominent than in the original text. The result is a production that feels both fresh and tightly focused, allowing the central relationships to dominate the narrative.
The core plot remains intact, with Benedick and Beatrice locked in a battle of wits, exchanging sharp-tongued jabs instead of admitting their true feelings for each other. Tom Hiddleston infuses Benedick with both charisma and complexity, masterfully balancing humour with emotional depth. His physicality enhances the role, adding a dynamic edge to his sharp delivery of Shakespeare’s text, and his enthusiastic participation in the dance sequences is a joy to watch.
Equally compelling, Hayley Atwell’s Beatrice exudes confidence and intelligence. She skilfully balances Beatrice’s razor-sharp wit with poignant moments of vulnerability, particularly in scenes where she confronts the injustices suffered by her cousin, Hero. Her chemistry with Hiddleston is undeniable and their exchanges fizz with a captivating mix of energy, tension, and charm.
“By giving the setting a modern twist, complete with a pulsating 90s soundtrack and high-energy dance routines, Lloyd crafts a production that feels both fresh and relevant, making Shakespeare’s story more engaging and accessible to today’s audiences”
James Phoon and Mara Huf bring a youthful vibrancy to Claudio and Hero, making their love story feel fresh and heartfelt. Phoon captures Claudio’s naivety and passion, while Huf’s Hero exudes a graceful purity, her quiet charm adding depth to their romance. Together, they create a dynamic that is both sweet and tinged with poignancy, drawing the audience into their journey.
Mason Alexander Park delivers a notable performance as Margaret, adding both humour and musicality to the production. Park’s impressive vocal talent shines, performing a range of ballads and party anthems that enhance the play’s lively atmosphere. Their musical contributions are an important part of the production’s 90s clubland aesthetic.
Jamie Lloyd’s direction is daring and imaginative, breathing new life into this enduring play. He amplifies the comedy while ensuring its deeper themes remain intact. By giving the setting a modern twist, complete with a pulsating 90s soundtrack and high-energy dance routines, Lloyd crafts a production that feels both fresh and relevant, making Shakespeare’s story more engaging and accessible to today’s audiences.
Soutra Gilmour’s set design is minimalist yet striking, perfectly aligning with Lloyd’s bold direction. A constant cascade of pink confetti falls on the stage, creating a celebratory and slightly surreal atmosphere.
It was striking how many young people filled the audience, far more than I’d usually expect for a Shakespeare play. This was likely due in part to the production’s lively, party-like atmosphere but even more so to the sheer star power of the two leads, especially Tom Hiddleston. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand, effortlessly drawing cheers and whoops of delight. Whether it was a playful aside, a sly wink, or even his surprisingly adept twerking, every moment was met with raucous approval from the auditorium.
Jamie Lloyd’s Much Ado About Nothing at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane is a bold and exhilarating reinvention of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy. With standout performances from Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell, a strikingly modern setting and a fresh directorial approach, the production breathes new life into the centuries-old play. While some choices may not appeal to everyone, particularly Shakespearean traditionalists, the overall effect is an electrifying and joyous theatrical experience.
Need to know: Much Ado About Nothing plays at Theatre Royal Drury Lane until 5 Apr 2025
