The Merry Wives Of Windsor
11 September 2025
The Globe Theatre
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
A very colourful and bright production of The Merry Wives Of Windsor is currently playing at the Globe theatre until the 20th September, and it’s definitely worth seeing!
Often regarded as one of Shakespeare’s lesser plays due to its less developed characters and mundane dialogue and setting, it is not staged as often as other comedies by the bard. Though it is still absolutely worth a trip to the theatre, especially the Globe.
Featuring a watered down version of Sir John Falstaff endeavouring to fill his mournfully empty purse by seducing two bored housewives to wealthy gentlemen, it’s a fun-filled romp rather than an intellectual venture. The two women, Mistress Alice Ford and Mistress Margaret Page, see through Falstaff’s plan immediately and decide to have some fun of their own. Meanwhile, Margaret’s daughter Anne must decide between the two men her parents have chosen as her suitors, and the man she is actually in love with, all while Mistress Quickly plays her part by misdirecting letters and manipulating people.
The biggest stand-out of this production is the stage and costume design. An absolute delight of colour and patterns. The stage design and costumes feature the same pattern, rendered in different sizes and colours for different purposes, with stand-out colour ways for pivotal characters, and pulling the look of the play together beautifully. It’s a gorgeous spectacle bursting with colour and meaning. The pacing of the show is deliciously quick, leading to a spirited production that tickles the senses.
From start to finish, it’s a light and humorous romp that fully engages the audience with ease. Absolutely suitable for Shakespearean aficionados and curious newcomers alike, this production is delightfully bright and dynamic.
