UK Theatre Network

Photo by Chris Beach

Prepare to split infinity and meet the mind of God!

More Light by Snoo Wilsonis a serious but comedic play, last produced in 1987 at the Bush Theatre. Wilson pays homage to the surreal and abstract - magic, creativity, and sexual activity are shown to be capable of releasing immense energies that can rupture the structures of the status quo, opening up new possibilities.

The philosopher, mathematician and astronomer Giordano Bruno was burnt at the stake as a heretic in 1600. It is said that he was executed for his Copernicanism and his belief in the infinity of inhabited worlds. In Snoo Wilson’s play he still haunts the dreams of the Pope. In these dreams Bruno enters various exit rooms, one of them a British heaven, governed by an eternal Queen Elizabeth I who is accompanied by her master of revels William Shakespeare.  Shakespeare, a woman now by choice to escape the Queen’s attentions, is writing „Love’s Labour’s Lost“ once again and uses Bruno as a character – Berowne. Also present are Dr. John Dee and his assistant Edward Kelly who try to make contact with the angels by using a complex numerical code. Dee knows that Bruno, although under the protection of the Queen, is not safe yet and might still be burnt as a heretic. Bruno is indeed closely pursued by the Pope who uses every trick in the book to lure Bruno back to Earth so he can be executed. Dee suggests that a consummation with Queen Elizabeth will protect Bruno. However, the barmaid is also interested in Bruno and her father is the God of Wine.

The production is a satirical take on Shakespeare and there are elements of commedia dell’arte and broad comedy. I especially enjoyed the chemistry between Jackson wright and Neil Chinneck in the scenes between Giordano Bruno and the Pope. The seduction scene between the Queen (Cassandra Hodges) and Bruno is another highlight.

Trifle Productions stage the intriguing play in the atmospheric Rose Theatre. Spectators are advised to dress for the occasion as it will get quite chilly in the archaeological site. There are blankets available, just in case.

Until 4 December 2010   

Mon to Sat, 7.30 pm

The Rose Theatre, Bankside

56 Park Street

London

SE1 9AR

Box Office: 020 7261 9565

www.rosetheatre.org.uk/

www.trifleproductions.com