Review: The Merry Wives of Windsor – The Maskers Studio Theatre, Shirley

Review: The Merry Wives of Windsor – The Maskers Studio Theatre, Shirley

by Charlotte Ndupuechi.
The Maskers Studio Theatre’s latest production, The Merry Wives of Windsor, has brought Shakespeare to life in the heart of Shirley, Southampton. This hidden gem hit the spot again with yet another great performance from these enthusiastic amateurs. Funny, well acted and great costumes made for a wonderful evening.
The story tells of the trials and tribulations of Sir John Falstaff, played by Brian Stansbridge, who tries to woo two middle-aged wives at the same time, with disastrous comic outcomes. The two wives are played by Jill Desborough and Maria Head. Another lovely character was Mistress Quick, played by Sue Dashper, who flutters around making a tidy sum to help put in a good word for the male characters. It was a very large cast who all delivered the ‘tricky’ plot full of great comic timing to a very professional standard.
With a welcoming team of volunteers and very reasonable prices, it makes for a great place to visit. Two cokes and a gin and tonic were just £5 at half time and tickets are £12. I almost don’t want to write this as I want to keep it to myself, but seems only fair to share.
The show runs till the 22nd of October, so you need to be quick if you want to catch it.
 Their next production will be Christmas with the Cratchits! Which runs from Mon 5- Sat the 10 December. Tickets are £12. And there is a free Open House event on Saturday5th of November if anyone wants to find out how the magic happens.
If you haven’t already been to see one of their shows you really must! (But maybe don’t tell everyone)
For more information, visit maskers.org.uk
  • In Common is not for profit. We rely on donations from readers to keep the site running. Could you help to support us for as little as 25p a week? Please help us to carry on offering independent grass roots media. Visit: https://www.patreon.com/incommonsoton