Actors From The London Stage brings Much Ado About Nothing to life through its signature minimalist approach, with five actors taking on multiple roles using limited props and costumes.
Ahead of the performance, we asked the cast to take us behind the scenes of this unique theatrical process and share their perspectives on collaboration, playing multiple characters, and the Shakespearean lines that have stayed with them.
Discover more about this season’s AFTLS production of Much Ado About Nothing and the talented cast: Pamela Flanagan, Grace Lilley, Chenise Lynette, Hayden Mampasi, Alex Phelps.
Actors From The London Stage is known for its minimalist approach to performance. How does working with limited props and costumes influence your storytelling?
Our quick-fire multi-roling means we have to be innovative with the way that we keep the characters alive when they aren’t ‘embodied’. What signifiers can we use that show the essence of the characters or that can be held in a way which frames their silhouette? A big challenge that comes alongside this is the decisions about who is holding the signifier and why—it is so tempting to choose the person closest for ease but we have to find the reasons that the characters physically connect so that everything is done with intention and can add to the storytelling.
What is the most rewarding and most challenging part of performing multiple roles throughout the production?
For me, the wedding scene has been a huge challenge. Playing both Leonato and Hero means there is a lot of back to back multiroling which has been difficult to remember and keep track of. However, it has also been brilliant because there is the chance to explore the same scene from two different perspectives both mentally and physically—a rare treat!
–Chenise
As a self-directed ensemble, how does your collaborative process differ from a more traditional theatrical production?
This process has been brilliant because we have been able to construct the room in a way that works for every member of the company. We’ve been using the phrase, “it takes 20–20% for each of us to create a perfect 100%.” This means that every voice is heard equally, we incorporate the different learning styles needed and structure the day in a way that is inclusive, exciting and most importantly, our own. We have complete autonomy which is quite rare in a traditional theatre production.
Do you have a favorite line, scene, or moment in Much Ado About Nothing? If so, what makes it special to you?
“I do love nothing in the world as much as you, is not that strange?” (Benedick)
Gosh Shakespeare knew how to write! This line is full of such vulnerability and childlike wonder, I love it.
–Chenise
“Let me be that I am and seek not to alter me.” (Don John)
Much Ado About Nothing was the first play that I ever saw at the Globe, I went on my own when I was 18 and freshly moved to London. I was full of the idea of starting my adult life and this line really chimes with me. Bad news, it is spoken by the villain…
–Grace
“I will live in thy heart, die in thy lap and be buried in thy eyes.” (Benedick)
At this point in the play, Benedick has started to boldly show his commitment to Beatrice and this line encapsulates his attempts in such a beautiful way, declaring his feelings with the intention of longevity.
–Pamela
“Get you some of this distilled Carduus Benedictus.” (Margaret)
This is such a fun line to say, meant to be helpful towards Beatrice but with a cheeky innuendo.
–Hayden
“There was a star danced and under that was I born.” (Beatrice)
I think this line is really moving and such a lovely image. Albeit I am a sucker for all things astrology, this strikes me because of the connotation of your fate being written for you, the idea that the dancing star makes you mischievous and fun, similar to a comet, leaving a burning trail behind you.
–Alex
After months of collaboration and exploration, the five actors are ready to bring Shakespeare’s comedy, wit and unforgettable characters to the stage. Experience their inventive take on Much Ado About Nothing and see how a minimalist approach can create a theatrical world filled with imagination.
September 9–11, at 7:30 p.m.
Actors From The London Stage presents Much Ado About Nothing
Don’t miss Shakespeare’s beloved comedy brought to life by five actors playing multiple roles in Actors From The London Stage’s inventive, fast-paced production of Much Ado About Nothing.
Co-sponsored by Shakespeare at Notre Dame.
