Ep 5. Ulysses

In Staged season 1 episode 5, titled "Ulysses," David Tennant and Michael Sheen continue their humorous virtual journey as they try to rehearse for their upcoming play amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The episode opens with David and Michael still at odds with each other after their previous argument. However, their director Simon (played by Simon Evans) manages to convince them to put their differences aside and focus on their work. Simon reminds them that they have a deadline to meet, and they must figure out how to perform their play from their respective homes.

David and Michael begin to rehearse their lines over video calls, but it's clear that the virtual medium is not suited for their theatrical performance. They attempt to use different backgrounds and angles to make it seem like they are in the same room, but it only adds to the comedic chaos of their rehearsal.

As they continue to struggle with their virtual rehearsals, David receives a surprise visit from his wife, Georgia, who makes an appearance on the video call. Georgia presents David with a copy of James Joyce's Ulysses, a novel that she believes will be a great read for him. However, David is hesitant to commit to reading such a lengthy book, and the conversation becomes another humorous moment in the episode.

Meanwhile, Michael's daughter, Lily, joins him on the video call and suggests that they do a TikTok dance together. Michael is hesitant at first, but he eventually gives in and joins his daughter in a dance routine, much to his own embarrassment. The scene adds a heartwarming element to the episode, as Michael and Lily's bond is on full display.

As the episode progresses, David and Michael continue to have difficulty adjusting to the virtual rehearsal process. Their frustrations eventually boil over when they become stuck in a never-ending loop of one particular scene. Simon attempts to help them work through their issues, but it's clear that the two actors need more than just a virtual rehearsal.

In an attempt to remedy the situation, Simon arranges for an in-person rehearsal at David's house. The three of them come together for the first time in weeks and are finally able to work through their issues. However, it comes with a twist that leaves them struggling to finish the play.

Overall, "Ulysses" is a hilarious and heartwarming episode that showcases the challenges of rehearsing during a pandemic. David Tennant and Michael Sheen continue to deliver hilarious performances, and the addition of their family members adds a new layer of depth to their characters. The episode ends on a cliffhanger that leaves the audience eagerly awaiting the next installment.