As the temperature plunges towards icicle levels of chilliness and snow dusts many a (particularly high) hilltop, we’re told, it seems fitting that we can glance into rehearsals for The Winter’s Tale.
Not the one at the Garrick Theatre that’s closing this weekend, that would be odd and distinctly untimely. No, the one that will take to the stage of the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse at Shakespeare’s Globe on 28 January. I know, you barely get a London production of Shakespeare’s late play – despite it including Will’s most famous bear-based stage direction – and then two come along in quick succession.
The Globe’s offering, directed by Michael Longhurst, features Olivier Award nominee John Light as jealous King Leontes who accuses his Queen Hermione, played by Rachael Stirling, of adultery. It is a move that leads to heartbreak – unsurprisingly – escape, a laugh or two and a fairy tale ending. Imagine that being played out in the flickering candlelight of the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.
Of course, in the rehearsal room there’s no such mood lighting, but Marc Brenner’s images do give us a glimpse at the treat that will be heading to the Bankside venue’s stage later this month.