THEATRE: THE COMEDY OF ERRORS

Two sets of twins, mistaken identities, rhyming couplets and bungling servants. So far, so Shakespeare. The Comedy of Errors is one of the Bard’s funniest plays – but making the humour accessible for STC Ed’s younger audiences can still be something of a challenge.They pull it off with colourful, cartoonish design and South American flavours that feel contemporary, blending well with the physicality of the performances from a youthful cast.  Voodoo priests, West Indian dealers and gang-leaders become figures of fun, lightening the darker themes of the piece. In fact The Residents seem to be enjoying the twists and turns of the fraternal farce every bit as much – and sometimes even more – than their audience. Live music performed by the cast is a breath of fresh air. Gypsy and Latin rhythms bring energy and pace to the production, and help to break down the barriers of verse and prose that sometimes stand in the way of really engaging with Shakespeare. Cheeky and charming, this is a hugely enjoyable production – and with a running time of well under two hours it is well worth a trip to the Pier.

Until Aug 27, Wharf 2, Sydney Theatre Company, Pier 4/5 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay,$25-31, 9250 1777, sydneytheatre.com.au

BY TOBY BOON