Gyles Brandreth’s Twelfth Night Reunion, an original theatrical experience celebrating Shakespeare’s most popular comedy. Well, this convening has put together an incredible cast of actors who want to share their experiences with you. The creation of the piece was captured during a performance in December 2022 at the Orange Tree Theatre, Richmond, London. Now, YOU can watch it for the first time for free on YouTube!
During the reunion, the actors shared poignant and humorous memories from their time performing in various productions of Twelfth Night. One of the most impressive personalities on hand was the incomparable Judi Dench. She originated the role of Viola in John Barton’s celebrated 1969 Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) production. Her truly brilliant performance continues to be the stuff of legend, securing her place in the pantheon of iconic theatre performers forever.
Donald Sinden, who played Malvolio in the same RSC production, was another star of the event. He is well-remembered for creating a famous comic moment in the garden scene involving a sundial and a fob watch, which showcased his comedic timing and theatrical prowess.
Stephen Fry, orator par excellence and all-round renaissance man, stepped up for the reunion as well. Fry has played the role of Malvolio at Shakespeare’s Globe, on the West End and on Broadway. His reflection on the character was both insightful and humorous:
“his mind is so open his brain has left him.” – Stephen Fry
Mark Rylance, who played Olivia in a notable production of Twelfth Night, and Simon Callow, recognized for his portrayal of Sir Toby in a National Theatre production, added depth to the discussions. Callow remarked that Sir Toby was inspired by his own father, stating:
“that the character was basically my father.” – Simon Callow
Penelope Wilton, who played Maria, transmitted her memories. She challenged Sir Toby’s low-class buffoonery with her high-class accent. This smart decision brought an extra degree of humor to her song.
The reunion reached a heart-stopping moment when Judi Dench performed Viola’s soliloquy, where her character realizes that Olivia has fallen in love with her. This loving, emotional delivery resonated with the sincerity of Shakespeare’s text that had the power to change hearts and minds, leaving an eternal impression on everyone gathered.
Stefan Bednarczyk provided a musical backdrop to the event by reciting lines from Twelfth Night:
“A great while ago the world began / With hey-ho, the wind and the rain / But that’s all one, our play is done / And we’ll strive to please you every day.” – Stefan Bednarczyk
The Twelfth Night Reunion was the crowning glory, showcasing the comic genius of Shakespeare’s original play. It also brought to the fore the emotional ties and common experiences that exist between some of theatre’s most venerated thespians. The event was a wonderful reminder of the lasting power of Twelfth Night. It reunited luminaries with their peers, giving rise to emotional friendship and collaborative artistic connections that remain invaluable to this day.