Kate Matthews

February 2010, Trafalgar Studios, West End

Writer : Lope de Vega
Translator: David Johnston
Designer : Kate Matthews
Director : Simon Evans
Some Photography: Minyahil K Giorgis

The rough and ready set for this Renaissance Spanish play takes inspiration from the more rustic and spontaneous theatre of Medieval travelling players. Metatheatrical in performance style, the set reflects the blurred line between actor and character, audience and participant. Flags and bunting extend into the audience who experience straw under their feet and the scent of lavender and market goods all around them.

“The pair are thrown together in an asylum, cleverly designed by Kate Matthews, who uses a few simple wooden frames to create a prison and a warm golden wall to take it to Spain.”
Philip Fisher, the British Theatre Guide

“You fall in love with both Kathryn Beaumont, as Erifila, and William Belchambers, as Floriano. They are entertaining but focused as they roll around together amid Kate Matthews’ wooden set, which is forever being reconfigured into some new cage.”
Dominic Maxwell, The Times Online, 16 Feb 2010

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The costumes are neutral in colour, plain and weathered. Simple items denote rank whilst the majority are designed to look like costumes from the travelling players’ trunk. Inside the madhouse, Erifila and Fedra are stripped to their undergarments and restrained by an iron corset and chastity belt.

This production recieved Critics Choice, show of the week and a four star review in Time Out Magazine. It has now transferred to the West End, at Trafalgar Studios. Tickets are on sale now, more information at www.madnessinvalencia.com.