Measure for Measure, Barbican

Measure for Measure is one of Shakespeare's 'problem plays', not a tragedy or a comedy but combining overlapping elements of both. As well as providing scholars plenty or material over which to ruminate, the complexity of the show also allows each production to highlight different elements. This adaptation by Cheek by Jowl's Russian company, emphasises the tragic element.
The play explores the arbitrary assignation of power, whether political, religious or sexual, as well as different modes of ruling. While the adaptation of the show creates what has been described as 'a shattering portrait of contemporary Russian society', it also has insightful echoes of our own culture and society.
Although the play being in Russian with English surtitles may, understandably, be off putting to some, seeing a play in a foreign language is an interesting experience. Just with subtitled television, you quickly get used to following the meaning along with the action, and take note of aspects of performance you perhaps might not were it in English. This is a wonderful opportunity to see a world-famous company take on one of Shakespeare's lesser known works, and highly worth seeing.