I dislike Shakespeare's major plays simply because I was forced to study them to pass the exams. And studied them well I did. Aced the exams. But so what? A love of the written word is cultivated, but not for Shakespeare. There's a special DISLIKE AND AVOID compartment in my mind for it.
Unfortunately, many friends enjoy the Shakespeare. I've had the 'fortune' to watch many both in Singapore and England. I don't mind Shakespeare's minor plays, especially 'The Winter's Tale' adapted from 'Pandosto'.
Months ago, the don't-live-in-Singapore friends alerted me to the transatlantic The Bridge Project and said that it would be worth watching a US-UK venture. They told me to grab tickets coz all of them would be flying into town to catch this play!
Well, it's Sam Mendes directing this. I couldn't say no. I watched it for Simon Beale and Sinéad Cusack, not Ethan Hawke. Heh. How lucky Singapore is to be the only Asian stop for a world-class Shakespearean play. It is with some excitement that I attended the final night performance of The Winter's Tale in Singapore. Also, was glad to see the friends.
The three-hour play is nothing short of spectacular. My back ached so badly till I had to come home and contort like a candy cane to get the kinks out. Nevertheless, I sat through the play in a half-rapture. I don't particularly like it, but I can appreciate it. Shakespeare's works can be such a pleasure when performed by renowned character actors. The night has been truly truly excellent.
Nice! I was wondering whether to head up to NY and watch it, but was too lazy :P
ReplyDeletePS No Ethan Hawke love? :) Love Rebecca Hall!
ReplyDeletedawn: it's worth the trip up. well, ethan hawke has clean toenails, if you must know. we were that near. he was rather charming in his performance, as a good actor is. rebecca hall is gooood! along with the rest of the cast!
ReplyDeletei caught the premiere. now say you're jealous!
ReplyDeleteoh. now i kinda wish i'd gone :p
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed studying Lit in school, especially Shakespeare. Guess I had good teachers! When RSC was here with King Lear I grabbed the tickets even though it cost a bomb! It was my favourite Shakespeare play so far and yes it was also my A Level text. Hahaha!!! Always preferred his tragedies.
ReplyDeletejazzgal: BOO!
ReplyDeleteame: you should have! it's great!
eveline: i think i had good teachers- except i was a terrible student. tragedies are the best. woots.
Half rapture alright! I liked the first half better.
ReplyDeletecarrie: more dramatic probably?
ReplyDelete