Cheek by Jowl: Measure for Measure

This production of Shakespeare's dark comedy 'Measure for Measure' is set in a rigidly authoritarian Vienna. When the Duke leaves the city in the hands of the Puritanical Angelo, strict laws are brutally enforced. Isabella, a novice nun, must plead for her brother's life, forcing her into a dangerous bargain with the hypocritical deputy.

Declan Donnellan's production of 'Measure for Measure' was widely praised for its bold and incisive interpretation of Shakespeare's complex themes. Critics lauded the sharp performances and the production's ability to highlight the play's enduring relevance concerning power, justice, and hypocrisy. The staging effectively captured both the humor and the disturbing undertones of the narrative.

• Praised for its stark and contemporary interpretation of the text.

• Jared Harris's performance as the Duke was noted for its captivating nuance.

• The production successfully balanced the play's dark themes with moments of stark humor.

Google audience: Audience reception for this specific theatrical production is not aggregated on platforms like Google Reviews. However, general audience responses to Cheek by Jowl's 'Measure for Measure' at the time of its run were overwhelmingly positive, often highlighting its thought-provoking nature and strong directorial vision.

While this specific production did not receive major film or television awards, Cheek by Jowl productions are highly respected in the theatre world and have garnered numerous awards and nominations over the years for their innovative approach to classical plays.

The production was noted for its minimalist set design, which focused attention on the actors and the intensity of the performances, allowing the audience to easily project the play's themes onto a universal stage.