Watch Shakespeare at the BBC: Comedies

Shakespeare at the BBC: Comedies from BBC2 is a television series that explores the world of William Shakespeare's comedies. The show is a celebration of some of the best productions from the BBC's archives that have brought Shakespeare's plays to life on the small screen over the years. The series comprises of six episodes, each focusing on a different comedy, and showcases the unique ways in which each production interpreted and presented the story.

The first episode of the show explores the ever-popular play A Midsummer Night's Dream. The episode details the different adaptations that have been produced by the BBC, from the first black and white production in 1959 to the more recent adaptation in 2016. The particular focus is on how each version incorporated the magical elements of the play onstage.

The second episode delves into the comedy of errors that is The Merry Wives of Windsor. The episode showcases different takes on the play, including a version set in the 1920s and another set in the Wild West. The episode explores how the play's themes translate over time and how the production choices can influence the reading of the play.

The third installment focuses on Much Ado About Nothing, one of Shakespeare's wittiest plays. The episode explores how various directors and actors have approached the play's comedic and dramatic elements. One key production that is discussed is the 2005 production starring David Tennant and Catherine Tate, which brought a modern twist to the classic tale.

The fourth episode of Shakespeare at the BBC: Comedies from BBC2 is all about Twelfth Night. This episode examines the multiple themes of this play, ranging from love and identity to disguise and deception. Each adaptation is shown in a unique light, with particular attention paid to the casting choices and the representation of the play's musical elements.

The fifth episode explores Love’s Labour's Lost, an early comedy from Shakespeare. The episode showcases various adaptations of the play, including a version that sets the story in the roaring 1920s. The episode pays particular attention to the way the production choices can affect the perceived tone of the play.

Finally, the last episode of the series is all about The Tempest, one of Shakespeare's most magical plays. The episode showcases a wide range of productions of the play, each with its unique perspective on the story's themes. The episode highlights elements such as the use of special effects and the representation of the play's mystical setting.

Throughout the series, historians and critics give insights into the social and historical contexts of each play, discussing the themes and analyzing the characters. The series' directors and actors also provide fascinating insights into how they interpreted and brought the play to the small screen, including anecdotes from behind the scenes.

Overall, Shakespeare at the BBC: Comedies from BBC2 is an enlightening and entertaining series that celebrates some of the best adaptations of Shakespeare's comedies. The series not only gives viewers insight into the different approaches to each play but also shows how productions have evolved over time. It is a compelling watch for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and those looking for a greater appreciation of the art of theater.