If you were lucky enough to watch Ad Lib’s 2022 production of Hamlet you will know this is a company that likes to do things differently and once again, this was outdoor theatre at its finest.

I watched Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors at Northwood House last week.

The whole cast got stuck in straightaway, literally becoming the body of the ship, a great added feature, helping the audience understand the plot.

After taking on the HUGE role of Hamlet last year, Emily Scotcher played Antipholus of Syracuse and once again did not disappoint. Emily captivates the audience and makes you watch her every move – even when she isn’t speaking.

Philip Barker really made the role of Antipholus of Ephesus his own and would give Rowan Atkinson a run for his money with his facial expressions and comedy skills - a real pleasure to watch.

Joel Leverton (Dromio of Syracuse) lifted each scene – a clear natural on the stage, managing to get a laugh in every scene, even in the well choreographed fight sequence, as he suffered a wardrobe malfunction.

Another highlight was watching Patrick Barry bring Dromio of Ephesus to life, bringing true slapstick style comedy moments to his scenes with his ‘on point’ comedic timing.

Joanna Adams needs to be commended for stepping into the role of Adriana extremely last minute. It’s a challenge to take on such a major role with confidence.

Bryony Bishop’s confident and playful portrayal of Luciana brought some extra dynamic to the scenes and demonstrated great comedic timing: the scene where Luciana is seduced by Antipholus of Syracuse was a real highlight.

Smaller roles were delivered with humour, including skilled performer Paul Stevens – who even when forgetting a line, managed to secure a huge laugh from the audience; Tom Ferguson , demonstrating clear diction and great stage presence; and Betsy Franklin who confidently portrayed Angelo.

Anita Davies, Fiz Bates, Chris Hicks, and Bianca Flanders all complimented the production well in their smaller roles, alongside Andrew Wilson Jenner as Doctor Pinch – (who literally came in with a bang!)

All of the cast looked like they were having the best time and it was clear that a lot of hard work had gone into the rehearsals.

Special mention must go to joint directors Si Lynch and Maureen Sullivan who also took on cameo roles.

The aim of Ad Lib’s productions is to make theatre more accessible and fun for all to enjoy and they certainly did just that.

One member of the audience was overheard stating that after watching this, it made a bit of a rubbish day much better – what a compliment to the cast and crew.