Concrete Playground

This weekend you’re in for quite a treat. Shakespeare’s All’s Well That Ends Well is coming to Sydney directly from Britain’s National Theatre. The screenings are part of a new initiative called NT Live, which sees theatrical treasures beamed around the world in high definition. Alas the ‘live’ component isn’t exactly true of the Sydney screenings* – the production was filmed on October 1st – but the experience certainly evokes the dynamism of a performance captured live.

The event begins with an introduction to this, the pilot season of NT Live. Hoped to be a theatrical/cinematic hybrid that will broaden the appeal and the accessibility of the National Theatre, NT Live then brings you into the wings to meet the play’s director Marianne Elliott. Then, after learning more about the play and the history of the National Theatre itself, it’s on with the show.


All’s Well That Ends Well is not one of Shakespeare’s best-known works. And this probably heightens the cinematic adventure of NT Live, as you discover this wonderful play in a new way. The story of fearless and love struck Helena, who goes to great lengths to win the affections of a haughty Count, All’s Well That Ends Well sees Shakespeare toying with the tropes of folklore and fable. Elliot’s direction and Rae Smith’s gorgeous costume and production design certainly heighten this fairytale atmosphere, with Helena even donning a red cloak as she sets off to win her man.

Adapting to Robin Lough’s screen direction is at first a curious experience. For audiences so used to taking in the entire stage, the close ups and framing might at first seem jarring, but much like Shakespeare’s mellifluous language, the live editing takes on a rhythm of its own.

With wonderful performances, brilliant banter and a lot of laughs, All’s Well That Ends Well is well worth a trip to the cinema.

* All’s Well That Ends Well will also be screening this weekend at the Hayden Orpheum and the Dendy Opera Quays. Click on the links for booking details.