A Much Shorter Comedy of Errors at Old Red Lion Theatre Review
Written by Cathie for Theatre & Tonic
Although it may feel like half the theatre world has absconded to Edinburgh, it’s wonderful that London has carved out its own vibrant alternative with the Camden Fringe. This festival supports innovative new theatrical experiences across many off-West End venues. One standout within it is the Old Red Lion Theatre’s Shakefest, a two-week celebration dedicated entirely to Shakespeare.
I attended A Much Shorter Comedy of Errors at the Old Red Lion Theatre through a rather unexpected turn of events, not unlike the characters Dromio and Antipholus in their chaotic arrival to Ephesus. The show is staged as a play within a play, presented by the five members of The Penge West Queer (+ Allies!) Over-30s (In Spirit) Book and Crafts Club. This crafty group adores reading Shakespeare while crocheting, and they've decided to bring The Comedy of Errors to life themselves. What could possibly go wrong?
What follows is a hilarious descent into chaos. The production embraces the slapstick spirit of Shakespeare’s farce, with a clear nod to predecessors Mischief Theatre and the playful energy of the Bard’s original troupe. The show is joyful, absurd, and entirely unpredictable, even for those familiar with the play.
This play manages to condense the rather waffling and convoluted plot of the Comedy of Errors into one hour. This shortening is well done and manages to retain all the key story elements and most of the jokes that resonate with a modern audience. Props and costumes are inventive and whimsical, and the performances are delivered with earnest enthusiasm.
If you’re looking for a chaotic, loving, and hilariously condensed tribute to one of Shakespeare’s most farcical comedies, this is a fantastic way to spend an evening. If you want a truly chaotic and loving tribute to the Bard’s comedy and a much shorter version than the usual three hours then this is the show for you.
A Much Shorter Comedy of Errors played on the 10 and 11 August at Old Red Lion Theatre.
★ ★ ★
