★★★★
Duels with a pint in hand, kissing cousins and catholic priests – it’s Romeo and Juliet like you’ve never seen! With a total of 4 beers and half a litre of vodka in his system, the victim, I mean, the actor Adman Goodbody plays Romeo against all odds with his sober cast.
This adapted version of the classic, with or without the alcohol is farcical and full of fantasy. Donned in period costume and hand-painted set the cast weave around the disruptions to the script Goodbody caused. Goodbody completes the period dance routine, whilst singing, without missing a beat. How? Who knows.
Intentional or not, his choice to make Romeo a polyamorous man throws his female counterparts, Beth-Louise Priestley (Benvolia/Nurse) and Jessica Brindle (Juliet) into a reoccurring ‘bit’ for the rest of the show. They both have a knack for improvising in Shakespearian language which is a joy to watch.
Hungover from the previous show, James Murfitt (Tybalt and Capulet) has impeccable comedic timing despite the headache and picking on the audience is obviously second nature to Murfitt.
David Ellis (Mercutio and Friar) delivers his lines without missing a beat, especially when on a time limit due to Romeo’s drunken tomfoolery. His speech as the Friar in particular feels more like a rap as he tries to explain the plot behind Juliet’s draft of sleeping potion.
In the end, Juliet is saved by Romeo and they all live happily ever after.
Nameless in the programme, a special shoutout goes to the Goodbody’s keeper for the night, who kept the audience entertained, the cast in check and only enhanced the absurdity of the show.
From die-hard fans to those who like to laugh, Sh!t-faced Shakespeare is an hour of enjoyment.
Sh!tfaced Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet is on at Pleasance at the EICC until August 27th.
Review by Jade Flack
