A Bard with a Twist: Exploring William Shakespeare’s Reservoir Dogs

The intriguing intersection of classic literature and contemporary cinema has birthed a unique theatrical experience with William Shakespeare’s Reservoir Dogs. At first, this bold mash-up of William Shakespeare’s timeless storytelling and Quentin Tarantino’s gritty filmmaking feels like an improbable concoction, yet it serves as a brilliant testament to the creativity of The Ghostlight League.

Two worlds collide in an innovative theatrical performance.

At its heart, the play is a scene-by-scene adaptation of Tarantino’s cult classic, updating the heist gone wrong narrative from a 90s crime film to an Elizabethan drama. Instead of modern gunplay, we are treated to sword-infused hijinks as a gang embarks on a carriage robbery amidst raucous tavern debates. This transportive experience offers a fresh lens through which to view both Shakespearean drama and the tension-filled world of crime.

In the capable hands of Steven Hopley, the adaptation succeeds in placing familiar dialogue into the rich tapestry of Shakespearean vernacular. Clever wordplay and witty banter abound, with a sprinkling of famous Shakespeare quotes to enhance the pizzazz. However, one might argue that in striving for heightened authenticity, the dialogue sometimes flirts with excess, rendering parts of the play dense and awkward.

A key challenge arises in reconciling the bloody violence and emotional turmoil inherent in both Shakespearean and Tarantino narratives. The comedic aspects of this mash-up might clash with the somber human experiences that accompany violence, leaving audiences in a limbo of laughter and reflection. Will we laugh at a dying man’s last words or grimace at a humorous asides amidst tragedy?

The tavern setting—and the chaos that ensues.

The ensemble cast deserves great praise, showcasing adeptness in transitioning their characters from film to stage, while weaving in a Shakespearean flair that feels both authentic and usurped. The director, Rob Lloyd, masterfully orchestrates the various tempo shifts, alternating between parodic moments and flashbacks that delve into the emotional core of the characters. The seemingly simple yet effective set design emphasizes a tavern aura—crucial since this is where the heist unfolds. The innovative use of projections to shift scenes from the tavern to the woods acts as an efficient tool while maintaining the audience’s engagement among the flurry of short scenes.

The adaptation of the original film’s iconic soundtrack stands out as an exceptional feat. With a live band performing hit tracks from the movie, the energy in the theatre is palpable. Transforming these modern classics into Shakespearean lyrics is nothing short of ambitious, yet the results are exhilarating, enriching the experience further. The inclusion of period instruments has resulted in a unique musical fusion that viewers will not soon forget.

Classic tracks get a Shakespearean overhaul in this innovative production.

Nevertheless, it’s important to note that newcomers to either Shakespeare or Tarantino may find the show labyrinthine; those who have engaged with Tarantino’s original film will find the adaptation rewarding. Without a basic understanding of Shakespearean dialogue and previous knowledge of the film, some nuances might be lost in translation. For committed fans, however, William Shakespeare’s Reservoir Dogs is a delightful spectacle worth its ticket price.

As we approach the conclusion of The Ghostlight League’s Shakespeare/film mash-up trilogy, there exists a palpable hope that this innovative company will continue to explore such rich and imaginative territory. Their ability to draw on the works of two vastly talented storytellers breathes new life into both mediums. I, for one, eagerly anticipate what they will come up with next.

William Shakespeare’s Reservoir Dogs is running until November 2, 2024, at the Irene Mitchell Studio, South Yarra. Tickets are reasonably priced, with an enriching experience awaiting those willing to embrace this theatrical experiment.

Cast and Production Team

• Director: Rob Lloyd
• Producers: Cassandra Hart and Rob Lloyd @ The Ghostlight League
• Musical Direction: Chloe Towan
• Production Design: Cassandra Hart and Rob Lloyd
• Costuming and Props: Donna Prince, Cassandra Hart, Rob Lloyd
• Sound Design: Sandro Falce
• Lighting: Patrick Slee
• Cast Includes: Cassandra Hart, Elysia Janssen, Rik Brown, among others.

Whether you’re a Shakespearean aficionado or a Tarantino loyalist, this mash-up brilliantly caters to both ends of the spectrum, offering a night of entertainment that is profound and raucous, tragic yet comedic, ultimately redefining the boundaries of what theatre can achieve.