Melbourne Reviews

Every year I look forward to sitting in the Botanic Gardens and watching Shakespeare under the stars. However due to some unforeseen circumstances (I’m looking at you COVID-19), I haven’t been able to attend for far too long.

What has been an annual tradition for many Melbournites is in full swing and as fabulous as ever. The Comedy of Errors is one of Shakespeare’s earliest plays and is unique in that it plays out over the course of a day. One of the Bard’s shorter pieces, the hilarious tale of mistaken identity, mismatched twins and long-lost love remains a favourite amongst audiences and actors.

Many of Shakespeare’s later themes get their origin from The Comedy of Errors and the chaos and comedy of this all-round good time show is perfect for a night of escapism under the stars.

The Australian Shakespeare Company, now in it’s 35^th year of operation presents The Comedy of Errors with the same flair and panache audiences have come to expect over three decades of starlight memories and unique productions. Even in the face of a pandemic and with no less than six understudies taking on roles on the evening I attended, the company has continued to thrive.

Anna Burgess took on the role of Adriana with mean girl precision while Madeline Somers utterly stole the show with her portrayal of younger sister Luciana. Somers' comedic timing, physical comedy and incredible facial expressions were simply a sight to behold and had the audience in stiches (her turn on roller blades was a particular highlight).

Syd Brisbane set the pace of this snappy production while Dennis Manahan matched his Dromio energy with slapstick humour to rival the three stooges. Scene stealer Fabio Motto was wonderfully over the top as Balthazar and Dr Pinch, breaking the fourth wall for some hilarious moments.

There is only one way to enjoy The Comedy or Errors, and that is to completely give in to the madness on stage. The production nods to its Commedia Dell’arte roots with the use of masks, stylised choreography and a fabulous opening number choreographed by Sue-Ellen Shook but doesn’t lean too far into the genre as to alienate the audience.

Joined on stage by a plethora of local talent including James Cerche, Claire Duncan, Penelope Gordon, Kevin Hopkins, Ruben Francis, Dion Mills, Maverick Newman and Tony Rive, there was even a Stan Lee-esque cameo by Director Glenn Elston as the headsman.

While there’s not long left to enjoy The Comedy of Errors in the Royal Botanic Gardens this year, rest assured, The Australian Shakespeare Company will continue to present the finest, silliest, and most fabulous productions for years to come.