Festival audiences rediscovered Shakespeare through the physical style and engrossing interpretations of renowned all-male theatre company Propeller.

When you’ve got the words of history’s greatest playwright to work with, why do anything else? That’s Propeller’s philosophy and it’s one that works.

Directed by Edward Hall (son of theatre royalty Sir Peter Hall), Propeller combined unwavering devotion to the original beauty of Shakespeare’s text with inventive staging that added clarity and appeal for today’s audience.

Presenting two very different yet equally enthralling works, this was fast, witty and accessible – Shakespeare at its most refreshing and alive.

THE WINTER’S TALE

Leontes, King of Sicilia, should have been a happy man. He had devoted friends, a loving wife and son, and a baby on the way. But he also had a big problem with the green-eyed monster. Seeing deceit and treachery all around him, Leontes’ irrational yet all-consuming jealousy led to the condemnation of his wife, banishment of his daughter and death of his son. Wracked with guilt, the scene was set for Leontes to begin a journey of redemption that led to a miraculous climax.

Donned in immaculate Italian suits and with brandy glasses in hand, Propeller’s cast presented a captivating modern twist on Shakespeare’s rollercoaster ride of contrasting emotions and motivations.

Presented in association with The Touring Partnership