Much Ado About Nothing Review: furiously funny comedy enthrals in a battle of wits
- Emma Knott
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
19 June 2026 I 19:30 I Shakespeare's Globe, London
⭐⭐⭐⭐ I PR - Invite
Tonight was my first time at Shakespeare’s Globe, and it had to be for a classic! So I was delighted to attend the Bard's much-loved comedy Much Ado About Nothing, this time modernised through its design while keeping the core of the story firmly intact. Directed by Chelsea Walker, this timeless revival certainly doesn't disappoint.
In the land of Messina, the play follows two very different love stories. Young lovers Hero (Assa Kanouté) and Claudio (Joshua John) appear to be destined for happiness until a malicious scheme threatens to tear them apart. Meanwhile the fiercely independent Beatrice (Pippa Nixon) and the stubborn Benedick (Ken Nwosu) find themselves drawn into a battle of wits, that blossoms into an unlikely romance. Nwosu excels in his performance, packing a punch with his monologue work and comedic ability. Between mistaken identities and deception, Shakespeare's infamous comedy carries recognisable tropes that audiences come to love.
Beatrice and Benedick's (Nixon and Nwosu) verbal sparring crackles with chemistry and honest warmth. Their stage relationship feels fresh and relatable beneath their insults, making it all the more satisfying through a modern lens. The wider ensemble brings an infectious energy to the script, ensuring there is never a dull moment.
Although not on the original site, the Globe is a remarkably authentic space, transporting audiences back to the Elizabethan era from the moment they step inside. Actors frequently weave their way through the standing crowd in the pit, every part of the venue becoming part of its storytelling. The three-tiered seating offers a fantastic view of the action. We were seated in the upper gallery tonight, giving a delightful perspective of Sami Fendall's clever, dazzlingly white set design.
For the most part, Walker's production of Much Ado About Nothing is furiously funny: the play's razor-sharp humour lands exceptionally well as audiences burst into uncontrolled laughter on countless occasions. It moves at a lively and confident pace, while still allowing the emotional moments to breathe when required.
When we look at the script for a contemporary audience, not all of Shakespeare's original writing finds empathy. The tone can shift drastically from jovial comedy to serious drama, and at times the darker themes linger slightly too long after the laughter, jarring with previous scenes. Hero's storyline remains deeply uncomfortable, where she is publicly shamed, disbelieved and forgiven in rapid speed. Fendall's costume design is modern, so we judge the character's standards on our standards today, which ultimately reads as outdated. The resolution arrives so quickly that it can be challenging to reconcile the emotional weight of Hero's narrative, especially against the nuance of Beatrice and Benedick's journey.
While these central love stories take centre stage, Matilda Bailes' role as Margaret proves to be the production's most delightful surprise, bringing a wonderfully mischievous charisma to the character beyond a supporting player. Whether firing out well-timed quips, or simply reacting to the unfolding chaos, she truly makes the most of her time onstage. Bailes' strong instincts enrich the world of the play, where her spirited Margaret is guaranteed to leave an impression.
As someone visiting Shakespeare's Globe for the first time tonight, I could hardly have asked for a stronger introduction. Chelsea Walker's production embraces the romance and intelligent wit that makes Much Ado About Nothing such an enduring play. This is Shakespeare that feels re-energised, accessible and thoroughly entertaining. For life-long devotees of the Bard, or those approaching this work for the first time, we see proof tonight that some stories really do transcend time.
Playing at Shakespeare's Globe, London until the 24th October: https://www.shakespearesglobe.com/whats-on/much-ado-about-nothing/
