The first part of Shakey Theatre's presentation began with Shakespeare's New Play; an interactive performance between the characters of William Shakespeare and his wife Anne, with the audience. Phil Stockton, the director and writer of the piece, took the leading role and although radiating a dramatic charm, arguably lacked the distance from the part to be convincing.

The interactive format proved extremely popular and soon various members of the audience were shouting a range of ideas to grow "Shakespeare's New Play". As Shakespeare builds his "new play" around feedback from the audience, tonight's creation became a tragedy based on "Jeff" and "Chantelle" travelling to Peru, running into an Alpaca, roasting a guinea-pig, before it all got a bit too much for Chantelle and she throws herself into a volcano. Phew!

The second part of Shakey Theatre's performance is devoted to a sort of a "what does theatrical entertainment mean for you" theme? Six actors take on a different persona of theatrical entertainment encompassing Greek theatre, Shakespeare, Realism, Brecht, Musical Theatre and T.V. Although the debate may be insufficient to form the crux of a play, you cannot fault these performers for any absence of enthusiasm, and their commitment to the audience is apparent throughout the evening.

Do go and see this play if you have a family with children aged (approximately) between seven and fourteen. The interaction between the actors and audience is marvellous fun and well worth the cost of a ticket!

Rachel Lane