THINGS TO COME – MUCH ADO AT THE QUEEN'S

THINGS TO COME – MUCH ADO AT THE QUEEN'S

The Queen's, Hornchurch, has a new Artistic Director. And for his opening show, he's chosen Shakespeare's riotous battle of the sexes, Much Ado About Nothing.
Featuring a large cast and set amid the jubilant celebrations after the Second World War, this much-loved romantic comedy will also commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. Inventive staging and a sparkling jazz-filled soundtrack will add to the magic.
It’s the end of the war and Leonato throws a party for the victorious Duke and his troops. Claudio falls in love with Hero and Hero with Claudio, and nothing will keep them apart. Claudio’s friend Benedick loves Beatrice and Beatrice loves Benedick – but they won’t admit it – and nothing will bring them together. Only the devious scheming of a resentful prince forces the pair to eventually reveal their true feelings for one another.
Beatrice and Benedick are played at Billet Lane by Hattie Ladbury and Thomas Padden, whose hugely diverse credits range from the West End and Shakespeare’s Globe to innumerable roles on television and film.
Meanwhile, youthful Claudio and Hero are played by recent drama school graduates Amber James and James Siggens.
The cast’s breadth of experience includes credits at the Globe, National Theatre, Regent’s Park Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, Royal Court and in the West End. Screen work includes Dr Who, EastEnders, Downton Abbey and Four Weddings and a Funeral.
They are: Liam Bergin, Rosie Barden, Jamie Bradley,Pascale Burgess, Nigel Hastings, Eliza Hunt, Mark Jax,Amber James, Hattie Ladbury, Thomas Padden, Sam Pay, James Siggens, Noel Sullivan and Sam Walters. The cast is supported by a 12-strong community chorus: Graham Bennett, Martin Hart, Mandy Lyes, Lucy Mason, Alex Raynham, Leah Rowlands, Hayley Sanderson, David Savage, Pam Shrimpton, Marie Watson and Megan Withers.
Design is by Jean Chan, musical direction by Julian Littman, lighting design by Matt Haskins, sound design by Helen Atkinson and choreography by Tim Jackson.

Much Ado About Nothing will be performed at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch from 4 – 26 March. Tickets are from £12.50 – £27. 
Call the Box Office on 01708 443333 or book online at  queens-theatre.co.uk