This November local theatre company Geelong Repertory rounds out its 2025 season by bringing Shakespeare to the stage.
But rather than one of the Bard’s famous works, such as MacBeth, Romeo and Juliet or Hamlet, Geelong Rep will present a fictional rendition of the man himself with a stage adaptation of 1998 film Shakespeare In Love.
Starring Joseph Fiennes in the titular role with Gwyneth Paltrow, Dame Judy Dench and Geoffrey Rush, the romantic comedy tells the story of a love affair between a young Will Shakespeare and wealthy merchant’s daughter Viola de Lesseps.
The film was adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, opening in London in 2014 to critical acclaim.
Director Derek Inglis said the cast was full of enthusiasts of the Bard’s work who had created a “joyful, funny yet respectful version of the play”.
“In 2019 I was lucky enough to see the MTC version of the stage play of the much loved 1998 movie,” Inglis said.
“It was fantastic; I certainly didn’t remember it really well but I knew I loved it.
“When the rights were available I knew straight up that rep audiences and members would love it too.”
Lachie Errey, who will play Will Shakespeare, said stepping into the shoes of the greatest ever playwright was “both humbling and a little terrifying”, especially given the quality of the cast.
“Everyone here makes it look so easy,” he said.
“This play celebrates the beautiful mess of making art; the heartbreak, the inspiration, and the occasional bout of writer’s block.
“It’s a love letter to theatre itself, and really, who could resist falling for that?”
Geelong Repertory’s Shakespeare In Love is at the Woodbin Theatre from Friday 14 to Saturday 29 November. Tickets available online at geelongartscentre.org.au or at the Geelong Arts Centre box office.
