Kneehigh's Tristan & Yseult Returns to Theatre Royal Bath to Critical Acclaim

A new staging of Kneehigh's "Tristan & Yseult" is running at Theatre Royal Bath, according to a review published by The Guardian. The production, adapted and directed by Emma Rice, revisits the medieval legend of knights, love potions and infidelity that the company first brought to the stage in 2003.

According to the review, the show was originally staged in Cornwall, the setting from which the story is drawn, and went on to achieve what the reviewer described as "cult status," attracting a devoted following of audience members who participate by blowing up balloons during performances. The production later returned for a 10th anniversary run, which the review said was met with similarly strong acclaim.

The Guardian's review characterizes the current production as a "heady mix of circus mayhem, cabaret sexiness, comedy antics and medieval tragedy," calling it "utterly irresistible." The reviewer noted the show retains its "giddy, fourth-wall trampling" style, featuring what is described as an "army of anorak-clad unloved" performers and circus-inspired staging.

The cast includes Edward Rowe as King Mark, Nandi Bhebhe as Yseult, and John Leader as Tristan. Per the review, the narrative centers on the wedding between King Mark and Yseult, during which Tristan, her secret lover, is depicted as simmering with concealed passion. Audience members are again invited to participate by blowing up balloons for the wedding scene, a signature element of the production noted in the review.

The review did not specify additional dates for the run at Theatre Royal Bath or provide further details on touring plans.