The Royal Shakespeare Company’s current production of Love’s Labour’s Won (Or Much Ado About Nothing) is full of fun
and festivities with the heart-warming notion that love can often show itself
in the most unlikely of couples. Its post-World War One backdrop provides the
perfect setting for a story of gender battles, sibling rivalry and love
conquering all.
Set in Autumn 1918, with the memories of war slowly fading
into the past, soldiers Benedick and Claudio return from the trenches to find
themselves reacquainted with Beatrice and introduced to her cousin, Hero. As
they settle into their post-war lives, Love’s
Labour’s Won follows the highs and lows of a whirlwind romance for Claudio
and Hero, with their passion being encouraged by most and yet plotted for
downfall by others.
Despite Claudio and Hero’s relationship being the focal
point of suspense and tension in the play, their engagement is upstaged by the
fiery and quick-witted exchanges between Benedick and Beatrice. Their constant
challenges of wit and smart remarks not only set up for some hilarious comedy
but provides a will they/won’t they situation that completely captivates the
audience. With them both confirming
their planned lives of solitude and bachelorhood, it only takes a little
interference from their friends before battles of wit meet with a ceasefire of
love.
Although both relationships are met with challenges, love
ultimately wins overall with peace and joy falling over this post-war household
just in time for Christmas festivities to commence!
Christopher Luscombe’s production of Love's Labour's Won (Or Much Ado About Nothing) makes a welcome break from the winter chill
with a warmth that flows from the stage and into the hearts of its audiences. It
is playing in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre at the RSC Stratford until 14 March 2015. With BP £5 tickets available for RSC Key Members, there are really
no excuses to miss such a fantastic show!
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