Born With Teeth
Wyndhams Theatre
Until 3rd November 2025
Play By Liz Duffy Adams
Directed By: Daniel Evans
As far back as the 18th century there have been claims that William Shakespeare either did not write all of his plays or he collaborated with other many other writers. The most plausible of these theories is that he collaborated with fellow writer Christopher Marlowe (author of Dr. Faustaff). So much so, that on copies of Henry VI parts I, II & III printed by the New Oxford Shakespeare, Marlowe shares a joint billing.
It is this relationship between Shakespeare and Marlowe that is the premise of the two hander play currently being performed at the Wyndhams Theatre in the West End.
Born With Teeth is named after a line from Christopher Marlowe’s poem, “Hero and Leander,” which refers to the idea of a person being “born with teeth” as a symbol of exceptional talent and brilliance from birth. Shakespeare and Marlowe certainly fit that description.
The setting of this fictional play is in the backroom of a drinking house where Shakespeare and Marlowe meet, collaborate, and spar. The time is the late 1500s in Elizabethan England, there is a lot of political tension and whereas Shakespeare endeavours to stay neutral, Marlowe dangerously play both sides and becomes a spy. Between the players there is a mix of political wariness, a battle of wits and a sprinkling of sexual tension.
Edward Bluemel (Shakespeare) and Ncuti Gatwa (Marlowe) are equally as powerful in their roles and possess a dynamic chemistry onstage unfortunately yet I felt the queer element of the play unnecessarily overshadowed the story.
Whilst the audience is more familiar with Bluemel’s character, it is Marlowe who is the charismatic of the two. This comes across as they write (together) the Henry VI plays, Shakespeare wants to stick to sources whereas Marlowe prefers to embellish. As their collaboration strengthens there is more balance between them. But ultimately, it is outside influences that determine the outcome of their relationship resulting in a tragic and untimely conclusion.
Born with teeth is an interesting watch enhanced by strong lights and loud projections between the three scenes. Bluemel and Gatwa are undoubtably compelling and yet the legacy these writers have left was unfortunately lost through the retelling.
⭐⭐⭐
Reviewer: Sammi O’Neill