Words by Fabrice Wilmann

“Sometimes it works, sometimes it fails, but that’s what we face when we’re dealing with improvisation.” Jan Garbarek

Improvisation is an art. It can be a hideously butchered experience if the actors are not skilled in listening to each other or are unable to adapt to their surroundings. But when done well, improv can be a majesty of laughs. The Soothplayers production of Completely Improvised Shakespeare is one such majesty. The concept is as follows: actors take a title from the audience and improvise an hour-long play in Shakespearean style.

While all shows employ the distinctive themes and language of Shakespeare, every play is unique and created on the spot: no scripts, no planning! The ensemble features some of Melbourne’s most well-trained and talented improvisers, including graduates of Impro Melbourne, The Improv Conspiracy, and Chicago’s iO Theatre.

The Forbidden Something was the tale woven when I attended the performance. A delectably delicious platter of tasty witticisms and uncontrollable laughter were offered in a performance akin to that of Romeo and Juliet, but with the warring families of Montague and Capulet replaced by the Florentines and the Macaroons.

A double-suicide climax was all but guaranteed, but the trials and detours along the way were gems of comedic timing and collaboration. The character of Jammie Dodger was a particular highlight; of course anyone with the insight and quick thinking to name themselves after an English biscuit treat in a world of Florentines and Macaroons is to be commended.

The actors remain true to their Shakespearean characters throughout and manage to weave motifs of fate, love and family loyalty into a hilarious performance. Torn ears and shaven beard hair is swept from the streets of Florence; the prince becomes so exasperated by the warring families that he decides to ride into Verona and assume princehood in that region; and the patriarchs of the warring families ride together on the last remaining donkey in all of Florence.

Completely Improvised Shakespeare is a display of camaraderie and respect for the art of improv. The cast are a perfect blend of talent and imaginative quick-thinkers, and abide by the Shakespearean adage: “With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.”