FROM the opening moments when the cast struck up a high-energy, foot-tapping melody, the tone was set for fast-paced and original interpretation.

Indeed, Common Ground Theatre Ensemble promised to “translate the flowery stuff” and proceeded to seamlessly navigate through faithful renderings of key speeches, hilarious narratives delivered mostly in the vernacular, and some brilliant contemporary vignettes to illustrate the action.

The “recruitment agency” sketch was inspired, while the spiritualist reading within the house engaged the audience and designated a member of the public as the Oracle.

An Attenborough-style wildlife voice-over, a sheep-shearing rap, Ken and Barbie puppetry and the discovery of the foundling in a sports holdall were all hints that this was a far from orthodox production.

When the familiar “exit pursued by a bear” line was accompanied by the music of the Teddy Bear’s Picnic, it was scarcely a “big surprise” any more.

Rebecca Beatie’s deadpan Northern delivery perfectly contrasted with Sarah Louise Davies’ ethereal stage presence, and the unbearable jealousy of King Leontes was expertly conveyed by Mark Edwards.

Jonny Neaves brought considerable energy and versatility.

With such a vibrant script and talented performers, the whole production was pulled off perfectly with minimal props.

Common Ground sucked the emotional marrow from Shakespeare’s play and served it up as nouvelle cuisine to a small but spellbound house. Delicious.

Christina McIntyre