Performed in The Globe’s indoor venue, Rough Magic shows us the ‘guardians of destiny’ led by three witches still reeling from “the Macbeth incident”.
Aimed at young primary school children, this is a fun introduction to the world of Shakespeare while having lots of moments to amuse their families.
An initiation for apprentices (the audience) to whichever of the four guardian departments they like – fairy, ghost, spirit or witch – goes astray when young witch Nona mangles her spell-casting once too many.
With ingenious use of the theatre’s trapdoors and entertaining moments of audience participation, Rough Magic keeps the manic tempo going for a 110-minute running time (including interval).
The four cast members – all women – work their socks off with a special nod to co-writer Kerry Frampton, who has four very different roles, including the pantomime villain ‘Henry IX’ and the rather effete spirit ‘The Shadow’.
Rosemarie Akwafo’s Nona is endearingly eager, while her aunts Morai (Janet Etuk, who also plays a lively Puck) and Audeja (Bryony Twydle) add lively support.
As well as the Scottish play, Rough Magic references Hamlet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and The Tempest, as well as poking gentle fun at Shakespeare’s multi-part historical plays.
Children in the audience seized on the silliness (one child suggested as ‘death spell’!) and inner youngsters enjoyed the chance to wave their arms and make daft noises.
A co-production with Splendid Productions, Rough Magic is directed by Lucy Cuthbertson, who took charge of Midsummer Mechanicals for the 2022/3 season.
Rose Revitt‘s design gives a sense of reality to the space, while co-writer, composer, and musician Ben Hales adds a touch of magical mischief to proceedings.
A nod, also, to the printed programme which is in itself educational and entertaining. The quiz tells me I am a natural pixie, which I heartily approve!
You can capture the Rough Magic at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse at Shakespeare’s Globe until 24 Aug with tickets here.
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Image credit: Manuel Harlan