Much Ado About Nothing

Such a delightful way to spend an evening – sitting in Eastbourne’s lovely Italian Gardens watching an extremely good production of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.  Director Val Dormady, with the assistance of Assistant Directors Peter Boon and Dave Nicholles, certainly gave their audiences a night to remember.

Messina is the setting for the play, revolving around the two romantic pairings of Benedick and Beatrice, and Claudio and Hero and the soldiers who had returned after their success in war. This EODS version of Much Ado was set in the 19th century using ideal Regency costumes and the backdrop in black and gold designed by Mark Gurney added to the lovely setting.

Benedick and Beatrice were played by Lester Seale and Kirsten Grinstead who gave their on/off relationship in style, using their facial expressions (which were quite wonderful) to great effect.

Then we have Sean Wilson as Claudio and Natasha Heath-Brown as Hero, both giving great performances.  All was going well with their romance until the villain of the piece, Don John, played in true villainous fashion by Peter Boon, really put the cat amongst the pigeons by circulating the rumour that Hero was no “maiden.”  This certainly caused trouble, with Claudio believing the rumour but as it was all much ado about nothing, all’s well that ends well!

Jane Tingley played Leonata, the Governess of Messina with distinction and grace.  All those involved in the Watch made wonderful bumbling fools of themselves and were a joy to watch.

The rest of the cast were all superbly cast and even though we were in the open air, every word from every actor could be heard distinctly.

So many preparations have to be made to put a play on in the Italian Gardens.  Although they are accessible by foot, it can’t be easy getting everything needed down to the playing area so a definite word of praise to all those volunteers who do such a grand job.

Praise also for all those involved in lighting, sound, set construction, props and costume and for all the other jobs that have to be done, including those who make the delicious homemade cakes and deal with the ever welcome refreshments!

Another success for EODS. Congratulations to Val and her assistants for bringing together an extremely enjoyable Shakespearian experience.

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