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Youngsters cast their spell over their audience

  • Jan Malatesta
  • 6 days ago
  • 2 min read
Some of the Art-Insight cast. Photo courtesy of Art-Insight.
Some of the Art-Insight cast. Photo courtesy of Art-Insight.

Arts-Insight presents Masters of the Verse, written and directed by Laura Berridge, running at the Albany Theatre from Wednesday 30 July to Sunday 3 August,

Review by Jan Malatesta.


 Arts Insight delivered a spirited and high-energy production of Masters of the Verse, a cleverly imagined and thoroughly entertaining piece that showcases passion and creative style.


It is set in the fictional town of Avonsville and offers a bold twist on literary history. The plot follows the infamous three witches from Macbeth, disgruntled with their role in Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. Determined to rewrite history—and exact revenge—they set out to dismantle the very foundation of the Bard’s legacy, aiming to replace his masterpieces with a modern world dominated by fleeting headlines and screen-based distractions.


Thought provoking. Photo courtesy of Arts Insight.
Thought provoking. Photo courtesy of Arts Insight.

What unfolds is a dynamic journey between past and present. The show opens with portrayals of Shakespeare’s iconic characters; King Lear, Henry VI, and the like; presented in a bleak and uninspired light. Will the witches succeed in silencing the power of spoken word and classical literature?


This fascinating musical brings together classical and modern language, original references, and a clear admiration for the works of Shakespeare. Still in present day, literature triumphed and will continue to aid the studies of young and old alike, even in an age of digital overload.


Great performances by all the young cast. Photo courtesy of Arts-Insight.
Great performances by all the young cast. Photo courtesy of Arts-Insight.

Interesting and colourful set with screen projections to assist in the understanding of the witches evil plans. Standout performances from the storyteller and the three witches, their vocal talent being a true highlight of the evening. Another memorable performance came from the enthusiastic teacher whose passion for literature radiated from the stage—a figure instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever had an inspiring teacher.


With around nine musical numbers, the entire cast’s performances were upbeat and modern with foot-tapping rhythm and great choreography.


The play’s the thing…” (Hamlet, Act II, Scene II) and this play truly is a celebration of good over evil.


Excellent evening of entertainment. Photo courtesy of Arts-Insight.
Excellent evening of entertainment. Photo courtesy of Arts-Insight.

Well done to the hard work that was obvious through the performance. A thought provoking, witty, and highly enjoyable production from Arts Insight bringing a very relevant topic to the stage.

 

Arts-Insight is based at multiple schools across Warwickshire offering after school performing arts classes and lunch time Lamda exam tuition. Their current partnerships are:  All Saints Junior School; Coten End Primary School; Warwick Junior (Boys) School; Brookhurst Primary School; Telford Primary School.

 

For more information on Arts Insight go to: https://www.arts-insight.com/



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