Love's Labour's Lost Gets Flamenco Makeover at Globe

Shakespeare's early comedy, Love's Labour's Lost, is currently being presented at Shakespeare's Globe with a distinct flamenco influence. The production, directed by Indiana Lown-Collins, features Spanish accents, castanets, and energetic dance numbers, aiming to enhance the audience's experience. The theatre's website even bills the show as 'Shakespeare with Flamenco'.

A Play of Challenges

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Traditionally, Love's Labour's Lost presents difficulties for staging due to its intricate wordplay, numerous subplots, and a conclusion that leaves audiences with a sense of melancholy. While Lown-Collins' production swaps some Latin phrases for Spanish quips, it does not fundamentally alter the play's inherent challenges. However, as reported by Time Out London, the vibrant atmosphere has led to considerable audience enjoyment.

Dance plays a significant role in this interpretation, serving as a narrative device to build tension and convey strong emotions. Guitar music further contributes to the passionate mood. A notable scene features Norah Lopez Holden, playing the Princess, expressing her character's feelings about hunting through a pasodoble, where she takes on the persona of a matador.

Character Interpretations

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The Spanish theme is heavily integrated throughout the supporting characters. Andro Crespo portrays Armado with considerable theatricality. Katy Stephens appears as Holofernes, depicted as a somewhat scatterbrained schoolteacher dressed in polka dots, a performance described by Time Out London as very funny.

Despite the extensive thematic additions, Time Out London suggests that the play remains complex. The advice offered is to appreciate the dance elements and the overall energetic presentation.