The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged)

Tom and Woogie. Photo: Mark Senior Photography

Review by Martine Silkstone.

The Reduced Shakespeare Company is currently at New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich with the latest version of their show: ‘The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged)’ - a wild and irreverent ride through all 37 of the Bard’s plays.

Well, they say all…

If you are expecting an authentic snippet from each and every one, you will be disappointed. Instead, this is comical, chaotic representation of the classic works, with many - all the comedies in fact - smooshed (is that a word?) together into one brief sketch. Some are presented at break-neck speed with a modern twist, some performed as a cooking show, and some given a little more time, treating the audience to a moment of calm to enjoy the language in it’s beautiful, complicated original form.

I especially enjoyed those moments as a Shakespeare fan, but actually, I have to say that it was all great fun. And that’s how to go into this show - expecting to see some comedy rather than to enjoy Shakespeare. There’s banter with the audience and occasional participation, a bit of ukulele playing, a surprising football analogy and rather more inflatable dinosaurs than you might expect. Not to mention a culturally questionable version of MacBeth.

Yes, this is one full on show!

And the three performers (no really, just three) are full of energy throughout. Woogie Jung is first on stage and introduces us to the concept before taking on a variety of roles. Meanwhile, a somewhat vomit-obsessed Tom Pavey is on the move constantly, playing all the heroines with the help of a variety of wigs - he makes a rather lovely Ophelia.

Special mention too for understudy Kiran Raywilliams, who has great presence and charisma, and, most importantly, wonderful diction - so much so that I would love to see him play it for real one day.

Indeed, I wish it had all been that clearly spoken. Because my only issue was that the pace was sometimes so frenetic that it became hard to follow what they were saying. Now, I know that speed is a given for this show, but if they could just rein it in slightly - slow down so we can hear the words clearly - then it would really help take it up a notch. I feel like I missed some of the gags, and as the ones I heard were great fun, that’s a shame.

This was opening night though, and perhaps that will change over time.

It was still a very enjoyable evening out and if you are looking for some light relief - or an easy introduction to the work of Shakespeare - then this is the show for you.

(Cast photos above by Michael Wharley)

The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged) is at New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich until 6 June 2026.

FOR SHOW DETAILS AND BOOKING LINK, CLICK HERE

Also showing at Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds on 9 - 13 June 2026. Click HEREfor details.