I’ll go into a bit more detail about this production once I have finally wound down from the experience. In the meantime the local press gave us another fantastic review. It’s a bit sad it didn’t make it into the paper proper especially since this underperformed play was getting a long overdue outing in Derby and that it was the first performance of Titus in our company’s 100 year history. However, over the course of the run the shows gradually made their way towards the sell out that was Saturday night and every performance that week felt like a full house anyway.
From the opening curtain, it was apparent the audience could relax into Chris Scott’s securely directed production of Titus Andronicus. Using a minimalist set, effective lighting and provocative music to drive the tension, Scott sets the scene of Rome, founded in bloodshed and quickly unfurls the tale of power, passion and revenge.
The mix of modern and traditional costume gives the piece accessibility, richness and sensuality. The mobile platform provides movement, height and depth and is firmly choreographed around the cleverly designed set. Great attention is given to lighting which successfully emphasises the mood and emotion of each scene.
The performances are sound, in particular the collective company on stage balance perfect stillness with engagement. Clever touches include Lavinia’s bleeding hands, inspired from Edward Scissorhands perhaps? The rape scene is cruel, brutal and yet does not appear gratuitous or over played.
The production enables the portrayal of a spectrum of emotions and the cast do not disappoint. There are strong performances all round, some who shine brightest include: Niki Caister, who uses attitude and sexuality to portray deliciously evil Tamora, Richard Davy as Aaron for rich and credible delivery of script, Matthew Sharratt as Quintus for balancing enunciation and projection within anger and Alan Smith and Nick Hallam (Marcus and Titus Andronicus ) for poignancy and care for their loved ones. The synchronicity of Matthew Swan and Danny Duder as evil brothers Chiron and Demetrius also merits a mention.
It’s always a problem what to do with dead bodies on stage and as this production has bodies aplenty, Scott manages to direct swift dispatches via innovative methods, thus maintaining the pace.
Shakespeare may not attract everyone and this tragedy is more brutal than most, but on the other hand, you can trust this Derby Shakespeare production, the story is clearly told and easily understood and a credit to the company. (Source: Derby Telegraph)
