Twelfth Night

by William Shakespeare

Twelfth Night had 4 performances almost 25 years ago (between the 14th of July 1999 and the 17th of July 1999) at The Magna Carta Theatre

Directed by Jane Walters. RDG's first foray into the world of Shakespeare, our production was a lively ensemble piece, simple set and costumed (modern) accompanied by specially composed music, song and dance.

Twelfth Night is one of Shakespeare's best loved comedies. It deals with loss and love, two plots crossing and un-crossing though deception and disguise. It has been suggested that the Christian "Twelfth Night" (January 6th, the Feast of Epiphany) replaced an earlier pagan ritual associated with changes in the natural order. Cold became warmth, darkness became light, so the revels associated with the festival involved the reversal of roles. This is probably the only connection the play has with the festival. Shakespeare's title relates more to the spirit of joy that permeates the play and the alternative title of "What You Will" indicates that you can take it as you find it.

"Time thou must untangle this, not I;
It is too hard a knot for me t'untie." (Viola)

The music has been specially composed for this production. It utilises recorders, a contemporary Shakespearian instrument in a modern musical setting.