The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)

comedy · phantom projects theatre group · Ages 15+ · United States of America

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Review by CHARLES ZIARKO

June 07, 2017 certified reviewer

What I liked

The energy and expertise of the actors in commanding the material and the audience.

What I didn't like

The balance of the original parody material, which skips MANY revered works which are ripe for more detailed parody to concentrate on just two easy targets.

My overall impression

You don’t have to know Shakespeare to enjoy this high-energy romp through his canon, but, on the other hand, you won’t actually learn anything either! Three high-energy local actors tackle a long-running parody that has entertained audiences in English-speaking venues for many years, and wrestle it into submission. The “Complete Works” ARE represented (38 in all) but most of the show is devoted to Shakespeare’s own “tentpoles”: HAMLET (30 minutes, including unexpected “audience participation”) and ROMEO AND JULIET (17 minutes, early on).

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