If you’re expecting to see a classic, traditional production of Much Ado About Nothing at Drury Lane with Hayley Atwell and Tom Hiddleston, think again.
This isn’t your grandmother’s Shakespeare.
Instead of a solemn, period-piece drama, prepare yourself for an all-out, vibrant spectacle set to a disco beat with a dash of kitsch and flair.
A Pink Disco Party with Shakespeare’s Warring Lovers
Atwell and Hiddleston take on the iconic roles of Beatrice and Benedick, the famously bickering lovers.
But in this new interpretation, their verbal sparring is framed as an energetic battle rap. The entire stage pulses with life, complete with pink ticker tape that falls like confetti throughout the entire performance.
The show feels more like a neon-lit, glittering extravaganza than a traditional play—think platform boots, spangly tops, and, of course, a huge inflatable pink heart that floats in the background like an oversized symbol of love.
Hiddleston’s Comedic Benedick: Slick and Sassy
Hiddleston, known for his sharp roles, plays Benedick with a carefree, almost cocky attitude.
Dressed in silk shirts and pleated trousers with a glitter belt, he struts around with a wry smile and a wink at the audience.
His fans love every move, especially when he shakes his booty during a Bollywood-style dance number, which adds a whole new level of fun to the production.
Atwell’s Beatrice: A Scorned Yet Fierce Beauty
Atwell shines in her role as Beatrice, effortlessly playing up her character’s scorn for Benedick’s arrogance.
But she’s not just the tough, sassy woman we know from Mission: Impossible.
When her cousin Hero is jilted at the altar, Beatrice shows a different side, letting her emotions take center stage.
Her sharp words and even sharper wit are a perfect match for Hiddleston’s performance, and their chemistry is electric.
The Hilarious Love Trick: When Benedick and Beatrice Fall for Each Other
One of the standout moments of this playful production is when Beatrice and Benedick are tricked into falling for each other.
The cast sets up a clever ruse, gossiping about the two lovers in a way that makes them believe the other is secretly in love.
Hiddleston’s comedic timing is impeccable as he hides in a pile of pink ticker tape, pulling off a clever disappearing act.
Atwell, on the other hand, is duped in a more traditional way, making for some genuinely hilarious moments.
A Supporting Cast Full of Flair and Fun
The rest of the cast is equally as memorable.
Forbes Masson plays Leonato, the father of the bride, with a flashy Ibiza-style vibe, while Mara Huf steals the show as Hero.
Tim Steed’s Don John is a campy, bitter character who brings a lot of mischief to the stage.
Mason Alexander Park adds another layer of fun as the cross-dressing MC, singing the hit song “I Swear” with just the right amount of drama.
A Light-Hearted, High-Spirited Take on the Classic Play
While this version of Much Ado About Nothing may not delve into the deeper complexities of the original play, it certainly delivers on energy and entertainment.
The playful use of emoji heads for the masked ball scene is a nice touch, and the entire show is filled with light-hearted humor and charm.
It’s a refreshing, fun interpretation of Shakespeare, perfect for a night out at the theatre.
So, if you’re in the mood for some laughter, some dancing, and a whole lot of fun, this disco-infused version of Much Ado About Nothing is the one to see.
Get ready to do a little dance, make a little love, and get down tonight—Shakespeare style!