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Theatre

Shakespeare as cruise-ship entertainment: Jamie Lloyd’s Much Ado About Nothing reviewed

Shakespearean newcomers – and purists – should head instead to Nicholas Hytner's new Richard II at the Bridge Theatre

Lloyd Evans Lloyd Evans
Purists stay away: Hayley Atwell (Beatrice) and Tom Hiddleston (Benedick) bring Shakespeare down to the level of cruise-ship entertainment in Jamie Lloyd’s Much Ado About Nothing Marc Brenner
EXPLORE THE ISSUE 01 March 2025
issue 01 March 2025
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  • Richard II

    Bridge Theatre, until 10 May

  • Much Ado About Nothing

    Drury Lane Theatre, until 5 April

Nicholas Hytner’s Richard II is a high-calibre version of a fascinating story. A king reluctantly yields his crown to a usurper who wants his violent revolt to seem like a peaceful transfer of authority. This delicate, complex narrative is presented as a boardroom power struggle in corporate Britain. Snappy suits for the dukes and princes.

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