All's Well That Ends Well Productions

These two productions of All’s Well That Ends Well present the play in different ways. The National Theatre Live presents it as more of a dark and dramatic comedy. The music used in this version is mystical and the use of the wolves howling makes the play seem evil and dark. Although both productions include the scene in which Helena is wearing a dark coat, this version uses a darker, red cloak that is hooded, playing on the mischief in the scene in which she says “Why then tonight let us assay our plot, which, if it speed, is wicked meaning in a lawful deed…” (III. vii. 43-47).

            The Shakespeare Theatre Company uses music that is much more cheerful, while giving a brief description of the play’s plot. This presents it in a light-hearted, comedic way. One thing I particularly like about this version is how obvious it is that Bertram is opposed to the marriage. His expression in the scene in which the King makes him take her hand is very clear. Before this, he plainly states “I cannot love her, nor will I strive to do’t” (II. iii. 146).

Because of this, I would have presented the production more like the Shakespeare Theatre Company because of how it captures the light-heartedness of the play. I think the fuller description of the play could be beneficial; however, I would give less of a description because I think the mystery of the National Theatre Live could interest an audience that may not have heard of the play previously.