Weapons, Words and Wit: The New Vic Theatre's 'The Three Musketeers.'

Weapons, Words and Wit
The New Vic Theatre's The Three Musketeers

Weapons, words and wit are skilfully wielded in the New Vic Theatre's adaptation of The Three Musketeers. Audience members watch transfixed as we follow d'Artagnan (Lemar Moller) from his country farm to the Royal Courts of Paris, in a quest to fulfil his swashbuckling dream.

           As the lights dim in this theatre of the round, we wait without hints of what is to come. The set is minimalistic, with the centrepiece being the staircase to the lavish balcony. Yet as the play begins, we watch the stage shift effortlessly between the grand palace halls, shadowy streets, and candlelit taverns, immersing us entirely within each new setting. Dominating every space in the theatre, actors emerge from beneath the stage, abseil from above, run dizzying laps across the balcony. The torch-wielding Royal Guard march between rows of audience, transporting us back to the 17th century. And as the firelight flickers from face to face, we find ourselves sinking lower in our seats like fugitives as the suspense rises.

            Whether through this quiet tension, with the low lights and uneasy music, or through the sweeping sword fighting scenes, the play has us forever on the edge of our seat. Philip d'Orleans' sword fighting choreography is, in the words of d'Artagnon, "like dancing," as each blow and parry is timed and executed with utmost precision. And of course, the dance sequence itself is the peak of comedic perfection.

            This masquerade ball in the second half was the climax of every highlight of this show - comedy, costume, choreography, and suspense. With the stage transformed in a flurry of gold, we watch the cast perform a very Gaga-esque dance routine, mixing modern with 'The Macaroni,' before once again breaking out into battle. The King and Queen duo (Gareth Cassidy and Emma Symmonds), in their magnificently dazzling costumes, deliver a hilariously flamboyant performance to the delight of audiences.

            Cardinal (Perry Moore), D'Artagnon, and the Three Musketeers (played by Thomas Dennis, Louis J Rhone, and Hadley Smith) also deliver comic wit throughout their performances. And although more subtle than the King and Queen, it is no less effective. With hopeless romantic d'Artagnon tongue-tied at Constance's every appearance, to Porthos accidentally adopting his west-country accent, it be makin' 'em laugh from start to finish. The relationship between the 'four' Musketeers brings a sense of brotherhood, palpable throughout their performance. From fighting for one another, to the final exchange of glances, their "all for one, one for all" motto rings true.

            Theresa Heskins has adapted Dumas' original tale into a family-friendly, festive production for all to enjoy. Mysterious and dazzling, comical and exciting, The Three Musketeers is a must-watch this Christmas.

            The Three Musketeers continues at the New Vic Theatre until January 25th. For ticket information contact 01782 717962 or [email protected] or visit the website at newvictheatre.org.uk.

 Review by Maria Conlon