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Resources for people passionate about learning and engaging with Shakespeare's plays
Measure For Measure (2004)
Vincentio, Duke of Vienna, departs from his kingdom suddenly and inexplicably, resigning power to his deputy Angelo in his absence. Under Angelo's rule, a vigorous campaign against lechery and sexual license begins.
It seems that love is no defence under the newly-fortified laws and one of the first to suffer is Claudio, arrested and sentenced to death for making his lover, Juliet, pregnant before making her his wife.
In desparation, Claudio sends for his sister Isabella, hoping that her virtuous pleading can move the rigid Angelo to repeal his sentence. but when Angelo demands a higher price than Isabella is prepared to pay, it becomes evident that not only love but justice is at risk.
The Duke returns disguised as Friar Ludovcio, but will he intervene to spare his people from the not-so-upright Angelo, and how can he respond when young lovers are imprisoned alongside brothel keepers and bawds?
Creative Team
Master of Play: John Dove
Musical Director: Keith McGowan
Cast
Mark Rylance - Vincentio
Liam Brennan - Angelo
Michael Bertenshaw - Escalus
Alex Hassell - Claudio
Colin Hurley - Lucio
Patrick Brennan - Provost
Roger Watkins - Friar Thomas/Elbow
Christopher John Hall - Friar Peter/Abhorson/Second Gentleman
Peter Shorey - Justice/Mistress Overdone
Roger McKern - Froth/First Gentleman/Barnadine
John Dougall - Pompey
Liana Weafer - Varrius/Juliet
Sophie Thompson - Isabella
Hilary Tones - Mariana/Francisca
Discover the Play
Discover the actors' experiences making the production in Adopt An Actor:
