• Gateway College Colombo takes on Much Ado About Nothing

All of us have experienced Shakespeare’s work at least once in our lives (often against our will). Whether it be studying the sonnets, reading about a stage performance or even watching a modern day adaptation, his work has touched a part of our lives. 

In order to honour Shakespeare’s contributions, the drama club of Gateway College Colombo will stage the iconic play Much Ado About Nothing on the 16 and 17 January at the Kamatha New Theatre at BMICH. 

A great comedy

Much Ado About Nothing is one of Shakespeare’s most iconic comedies known for its sharp wit, playful banter, misunderstandings and dramatic twists. At the heart of the play are two contrasting love stories; the tender romance between Claudio and Hero and the fiery, humorous relationship between Beatrice and Benedick. Their interactions which are filled with sarcasm and verbal sparring, remain some of the most memorable moments in Shakespeare’s work.

“What I love about this play is the amount of humour and clever word play,” theater goer Ajmal Shaniq Cassim,27, told The Daily Morning Brunch. “I love Shakespeare’s comedies because there are so many witty jokes, hidden references and double meanings that one could get if they paid close enough attention to.” 

Yet, what makes the play particularly engaging is its balance between light-hearted comedy and deeper themes. While audiences are entertained by overheard conversations, mistaken identities and witty wordplay, the play also explores ideas such as honour, trust, gender roles and the consequences of gossip. These themes continue to resonate with modern audiences, making the play as relevant today as it was in Shakespeare’s time.

“What I really love about this play is the exploration of gender roles and how female characters, especially Hero, became the focus of sexist gossip,” Anne Abeyratne, 31, said. “The discussion about her honour and purity are still a problem that many women across the world face. And it is really interesting because the play explores the impact an attack on a woman’s purity has, while men often do not face such attacks.” 

Abeyratne said that she looks forward to seeing the play because it reminds her that the issues discussed are just as important today as they were in the past. 

“Gossip and the consequences of rumors play a large part in the play and that is still true in the modern day,” she said. “Many of us, especially women, have been forced to endure or even take part in negative gossip that creates misunderstandings and destroys trust. This is why this play is so relevant to the modern theater patron.” 

Bringing Shakespeare to life

For those involved, staging a Shakespearean play is no small task. From mastering the language of the era to understanding the emotions and motivations behind each character; the production requires dedication, focus, and teamwork. The Gateway College drama club has taken on this challenge with enthusiasm, aiming to present the play in a way that is engaging and accessible for audiences of all ages while adding in Sri Lankan elements and culture to incorporate our roots. 

“The school has always been fond of staging Shakespeare’s plays because it is so rewarding yet relatable,” Gateway College alumnus, Rahal Rodrigo,24, said. “I have so many fond memories of hearing about and watching these dramas, so I’m truly excited for this one.”

For many students, performing Shakespeare is an opportunity to explore language in a way they never have before, discovering the rhythm and music in his words while also learning how to inhabit a character fully.

“Gateway Productions has always been unique and innovative,” Gateway College Colombo Drama Club teacher in charge and Much Ado About Nothing Director Sahan Rangitha, said. “Together with my children, we work by one simple rule ‘no fear, just jump right in.’ That is how we work together to create theatre.

Theatre for everyone

Productions like this highlight the importance of school theatre in nurturing creativity and confidence among young performers. Beyond acting, students are involved in set design, lighting, sound and backstage coordination. These experiences teach practical skills, teamwork and problem-solving, all while fostering a love for the arts.

Choosing a play like Much Ado About Nothing also encourages audiences to revisit Shakespeare with a fresh perspective. It serves as a reminder that his work is not just meant for textbooks or exams but  to be laughed at, discussed and enjoyed. School productions like this keep Shakespeare alive in the minds of young people and the broader community.

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Gateway College Colombo’s production of Much Ado About Nothing, goes on the boards at the Kamatha New Theatre, BMICH. Tickets are priced from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2500 and are available for purchase at tickets.lk