If you’re not at the Fringe but still want to catch a typical low-budget university production, then head to Southwark Playhouse.
Oxford University Drama Society present their take on the old bard’s Comedy of Errors, with BBC English, slapstick and matching twin outfits from Primark to boot. There’s pretty much no set to speak of other than a white doorframe that gets carted about the stage and made a big deal of, so it really is just the actors and their words with a lot of clowning about to fill it out; if you’re new to the play it’s probably not the most insightful introduction.
One low point was the farcical sound effects added to the slow motion punches and lunges (imagine if you will the crème de la crème of Looney Tunes sound effects gracing each clout two seconds too late). The play is advertised as being 'set in a sun-soaked world of sex and self-indulgence' (it's set in ex-pat Malaga) which wasn't really realised as the club scenes are awkward and none of it very sexy, but it’s young, it’s lively, and a great way to see what kids get up to at uni these days.
The Comedy of Errors is playing now at Southwark Playhouse, 77-85 Newington Causeway, SE1 until 17 August. Tickets £10. For more information see the Southwark Playhouse website. Londonist saw this play on a complimentary press ticket.
