t feels like a prerequisite of gardens plays that it must be a Shakespeare or a Wilde, but typically colleges lean towards comedy rather than something as politically knotted at The Tempest. However, clearly the creative team of the Magdalen Players think differently.
shakespeare
Enter Macbeth
Macbeth is one of Shakespeare's most performed plays. So a question must be asked about how this one is different. In the case of Out of Chaos' performance the answer is a two hander. This entire performance is a wonderful lesson in characterisation, acting as a masterclass in creating character.
I Will Live in Thy Heart
Lloyd has turned the theatre into the ultimate party venue. There are strobe lights, club classics and more pink confetti than you have ever seen! From the moment I entered I felt that I was transported, the familiar setting fading away - this was going to be a fun ride!
These Violent Delights Have Violent Ends
Romeo and Juliet is a play which has been performed more times than we can record, yet each director attempts to bring something new to the classic love story. In the case of the Jamie Lloyd production, the first word I uttered afterwards was 'wow'. I feel this encapsulates all.
The Course of True Love Never Did Run Smooth
The first and most important rule of a garden play is that it must be fun. Let The Playhouse and The O'Reilly have their serious shows, the Trinity term garden play is an opportunity for a laugh both as cast and audience. This is a rule that the Trinity Players took to heart, director Alex Evers.
Hope is a Lover’s Staff
This week the city has the pleasure of witnessing the merging of student and professional. With director Greg Doran leading a student team for Two Gentlemen of Verona, it is an opportunity to witness what can be achieved when the talent within OUDS is given the chance to shine.
This is the Poison of Deep Grief
Every Oxford Drama show has a unique reputation, for some it is excellence and for others it is the purely chaotic nature of the production. In the case of the O'Reilly Hamlet this week, it was the loss of Yorick’s skull on opening night that made this the most discussed show of term.
Tea Time at the Theatre
Found in the upstairs of The Royal Theatre on Drury Lane, the restaurant is one of classical elegance with a theatre twist. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea whilst surrounded by paintings and the busts of familiar names such as Ivor Novello.
Winged Cupid Painted Blind
This performance was one of visual spectacle, with the immersive atmosphere of the space lending itself to the directorial choices. From the costumes to the lighting to the use of the space, this was a cohesive piece of art that the team should feel immensely proud of.
Stars Hide Your Fires
Upon first entering The Pilch, the initial thought in the minds of the audiences was the distinct lack of set. Beside the black and white wall hanging that was somewhat reminiscent of a colour by numbers, there was simply a blank canvas.
Wild Rose and Pearls 