“Director Esther Jun finds smart solutions to some of the play’s trickier features…

This kingdom of hyper-fragile masculinity is ruled, like Melly Still’s 2016 RSC version, by a female Cymbeline (Lucy Peacock). When Iachimo emerges from the trunk in Innogen’s bedroom, there is not quite the usual sense of threat but rather the impression of a man who flickeringly recognises his guilt and unworthiness in the presence of such purity. It all brings alive Innogen’s subsequent revelation: ‘I see a man’s life is a tedious one.'”
[Chris Wiegand’s trip was provided by the festival]

“Lucy Peacock is a forceful Cymbeline bringing her confidence to this character. Allison Edwards-Crewe plays an interesting Innogen, who goes on a journey both physically and mentally, becoming a stronger woman. Jordin Hall as Posthumus is charming and there is chemistry between him and Innogen. Tyrone Savage is a cocky and deceitful Iachimo…

Cymbeline is not a favourite of most Shakespeare fans. Yet this production might make it more popular. A strong cast has given a new take on the main story, and in doing so, offered greater understanding of the sub-plots.”

“The creative choices by Jun and her collaborators work to temper sone of the challenges posed by this play, circumventing the genre confusion by presenting the story as legend. By focusing on what Jun describes as “the magic within,” the cast and crew help foreground what’s magical about this play to create an enthralling production. Beautifully acted and wonderfully staged, Cymbeline is not to be missed.”

“The central virtue of Esther Jun’s current Stratford production of “Cymbeline” is that she and her wonderful cast roll with the play’s stylistic and thematic improbabilities and excesses, embracing audience laughter as revelations pile up and leaning into the swooniness of the more fancifully romantic bits. At three hours the production feels long and the pace sometimes sags, and it’s stronger on atmosphere than on apparently clear choices around context or message…

[Jordin] Hall steps ever further into leading man status with this confident turn as Posthumus, exhibiting impressive levels of vocal, physical and emotional expression.”

“…if you are looking for an exciting story with unexpected twists and turns, brilliant performances, and a few laughs along the way – and you also happen to be a Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones fan – look no further than the Stratford Festival’s current production of CYMBELINE.”

“Under [Esther] Jun’s direction, Cymbeline’s cast feels like a real ensemble – with every actor given a chance to shine and show something new – but I must single out [Christopher] Allen, making his Stratford debut, for his highly original and marvellous vain portrayal of Cloten. He is aided by a wig with hilarious bangs that he is constantly batting out of his face.”