The Winter's Tale, Lighthouse, Poole
I'VE NEVER liked Leontes. It's the death of his son Mamillius that has always rankled.
Defenders of the play quote concepts of reconciliation, the purgative nature of remorse and the healing qualities of time but I've always thought he is forgiven too easily and that poor Mamillius is too easily forgotten.
With adroit use of modern highlighting techniques, Compass have succeeded in addressing my niggling unease. The play opens and closes with a disconcerting Mamillius framed by images of a disjointed society and finally we are aware that he is the one who has paid the highest price.
Leontes' plummet into insanely destructive jealousy is captured by Peter Lindford, especially his occasional explosion of manic physicality.
The trial scene in which he mercilessly condemns his innocent wife - Beatrice Comins as Hermione - for adultery with his best friend, is strikingly set and powerfully delivered. Shakespeare said a sad tale's best for winter, but Compass have created a piece that uses all the potential for humour and a variety of styles to present some fresh ideas, even giving a new slant to the most famous stage direction in theatre - Exit, pursued by a bear.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article