Measure For Measure

The Woolstore Theatre presents: The Commandery Players in "Measure for Measure" by William Shakespeare A “dark” comedy, written in 1603 and first performed in 1604, according to available records. The original was believed to be published in the First Folio in 1623 from a transcript of an authorial draft. The play, originally in 5 Acts, has been adapted by Michael Whitaker.

It explores the idea that things are not always as they seem and that people are not always who they profess to be. It examines the interplay between mercy and justice. Although the audience is aware of who’s who and what tricks and disguises are being played out, the characters on stage are often in the dark as to what is happening.

Most famous quote: “Haste still pays haste, and leisure answers leisure / Like doth quit like, and Measure still for Measure.”

Set in Vienna, a city teeming with brothels and loose morality, the Duke, who should be in charge, doesn't want to use his authority to clean up the city. He departs, dressed as a friar, leaving his deputy, Angelo, in charge. Angelo is at first reluctant, but he soon starts to make changes. He is rather a puritanical man and once he gets the ‘bit between his teeth’, he gets rather carried away.

The Duke returns to the city in disguise and begins to interfere with events through other people. What follows is a catalogue of mis-direction, intrigue, subterfuge, lust, betrayal and counter betrayal.

To learn more and find out how the play ends you must come and see for yourself. The play runs from October 18th to 19th 7.30pm Tickets £12