All of Shakespeare’s 16 comedies merged into one? Othello in a rap interpretation? Hamlet performed in 46 seconds or even backwards?
All of this was what interested final-year students could witness during their voluntary evening visit to the Vienna English Theatre on 27 April together with teachers Vera Prinz and Annette Gartner, outside regular school hours. The performance of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) was serious at times, with pointed remarks about the current situation of the world, but also hilariously funny, quick-witted and full of surprising moments.
With great energy, clever wordplay and plenty of audience interaction, the actors managed to present Shakespeare’s works in a fast-paced and highly entertaining way. For the students who decided to take part, the evening was not only a cultural experience beyond the classroom, but also a lively reminder that Shakespeare can still be relevant, accessible and very amusing today.