Twelfth Night | Theatr Clwyd

Theatr Clwyd's Twelfth Night is a production that celebrates Shakespeare’s work, infusing it with a contemporary lens that feels joyous, accepting, and deeply human. In this version, we follow Cesario as a transgender character as opposed to under disguise as a man, and the story explores a gay relationship between Sebastian and Antonio. Not only is this incredibly refreshing to see staged, it's done so in such an authentic way that allows audiences to celebrate love and individuality in all its forms; reinforcing the idea that Twelfth Night is as much about self-discovery as it is about romantic resolution.

Juliette Manon's imaginative staging allows this production to feel fresh and irresistibly fun. From the offset, you are completely drawn into the characters and their journey; there's an harmonious equilibrium of chaos, comedy, and genuine emotional depth which grounds the characters. Throughout, the play is paced well, and even when Shakespeare's language feels too heavy, the direction and the overall performances of the cast maintain the audience's attention. Another highlight is the way in which gentle foreshadowing and playful breaking of the fourth wall is incorporated; its overall wit and charm allows this ambitious take on Twelfth Night to thrive.

Lee Braithwaite leads as Cesario with such an impactful performance, as we observe his journey to self-acceptance. Braithwaite is utterly captivating and captures the conflicting emotions and challenges with ease; it feels easy to connect with his Cesario. Bethan Rose Young's Olivia is emotionally driven and there is genuine weight to the connection between Cesario and Olivia. Phylip Harries swaps his panto dame gowns for yellow stockings with a hilarious take on Malvolio. Harries, as usual, delivers with impeccable comedy.

Joseph Benjamin Baker as Sir Andrew Aguecheek impresses with his commitment to the bit, accurately depicting a self-deluded and foolish soul. Lucy Ellinson is utterly hilarious as the drunken Lady Toby Belch, and together Baker and Ellinson, alongside Philippa Cole as Maria, more than deliver with their moments of mischief.

Arwel Gruffydd is absolutely beautiful in the role of Feste. Traditionally, Feste is seen as the fool and a form of entertainment, but he's often the most perceptive and wisest character in the play. This is honoured in this production of Twelfth Night; his self-acceptance of his most authentic self guides Cesario to embraces his own journey, which is utterly stunning. Gruffydd also impresses with beautifully written musical interludes (Cerys Hafana), that brings an extra layer to the storytelling.

Overall, each member of the cast gives an incredibly impactful performance that allows Shakespeare to be accessible for wider audiences. If there is a slight criticism to be made, it is sometimes difficult to follow what is being said with some characters talking too quickly or shouting their lines, making Shakespeare's already tricky language more difficult to decipher. However, there's no doubt that this will subside as the performers settle into their roles more comfortably.

Cai Dyfan's Set Design is a visually striking, and brings Illyria to life in a contemporary fashion. A chandelier sits on the stage alongside a small pond, as well as a two tiered set with a lift and straicase which leads to fluidity of movement, with a special mention to Chi-San Howard's Movement Direction; allowing the characters to co-exist and portraying a sense of tangled lives.

Eamonn O'Dwyer as Composer, Sound Designer and Musical Director creates atmosphere with waves crashing prior to the show's beginning, and there are lovely moments of sound which aid the whimsical tone of the play. Joshie Harriette's Lighting Design supports the play's shifting tones; allowing moments of emotional reflection to counteract with the stylised moments.

Overall, Theatr Clwyd's Twelfth Night is a deeply human and a cathartic experience, celebrating the unapologetic right to embrace oneself.

Twelfth Night plays at Theatr Clwyd until 16th May 2026 - tickets and more information can be found here.

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Sam Taylor