Based on recent scholarly work, it appears that Christopher Marlowe and Shakespeare likely collaborated on the Henry VI cycle of plays. This compelling idea invites speculation about the nature of the relationship between these two literary giants. Liz Duffy Adams’ play is an earnest attempt to explore this question. From what we know, Marlowe was undoubtedly the more flamboyant of the two. In the twisted and paranoid atmosphere of Elizabethan England, with its religious rivalries and uncertain political future, Marlowe was openly gay, reportedly a spy for Robert Cecil, and met his end in a knife fight at a tavern. Shakespeare, by contrast, was discreet about his sexuality, cautious in his politics, and died peacefully in his bed. The difference between them could not be more striking, and the notion of their collaboration is undeniably engaging. How did they navigate their personal, artistic, and political differences? This could have been the basis for a riveting game of cat-and-mouse or a compelling study of attitude and artistry. Instead, the play presents a rather simplistic tale of ego and seduction. This portrayal of the twosome's artistic and personal relationship lacks nuance and subtlety. Ncuti Gatwa’s Marlowe bluntly declares his political and sexual interests; on the whole, his Marlowe comes across as simply egocentric and obnoxious. Meanwhile, Edward Bluemel’s Shakespeare appears improbably impressionable and lacking in confidence. Both performances are broadly drawn and are not helped by Joanna Scotcher’s set design and Neil Austin’s lighting, which do little to enhance the piece’s artistry. The glaring spotlights that dominate the stage distract from the dialogue to the point of annoyance. Although there is a clever twist at the end of the play, like the characters themselves, its moral implications remain largely unexplored. Unfortunately, this is one of those works with a promising premise that falters in execution. Were the central characters not Shakespeare and Marlowe, one wonders if Born With Teeth would have attracted as much interest.
Rated: ★★★
Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Johan Persson
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