Love and Laughter in The Forest of Arden
William Shakespeare wrote, “All the world’s a stage,” in his famous comedy As You Like It. This summer, the play will be performed on a special stage in Staunton: the Blackfriars Playhouse. This theater is operated by the American Shakespeare Association and is the first-ever recreation of Shakespeare’s indoor theater. As You Like It will run from May 28 to August 8.
The American Shakespeare Center’s Assistant to the Director of Marketing and Development Katie Matthews said the Blackfriars Playhouse’s productions are unique because “the audience is a part of the story from the moment the play begins.” The minimal sets and props and the full lighting draws the audience’s focus to the actors.
If audience members want an even more immersive experience, they can purchase Gallant Stool tickets for seats that are on the stage. Matthews said, “These are a truly unique experience, as the patrons who occupy them are often the first choice when actors deliver lines to the audience. Gallants may find themselves let in on a secret, utilized as a coat rack, or the focus of a bit of playful attentions.”
As You Like It was first performed in 1599 and was loosely based on the romance Rosalynde, according to the Royal Shakespeare Company. The story is full of humor and love and follows the characters Orlando, Rosalind, Celia, and Touchstone, among others, as they explore the Forest of Arden.
Matthews said that rehearsals for As You Like It will begin in May and will include table and scene work, text coaching, fight and intimacy choreography, and music rehearsals. She said, “Each part of the process builds on the last as we bring the play to life.”
While As You Like It was first performed over 400 years ago, Matthews still believes it is relevant to viewers. “Everyone can relate to feeling stuck in the roles and rules society places on them. As You Like It invites us to challenge our circumstances, or abandon them entirely, realize our desires, and chase them with all our might,” said Matthews.
Matthews added that Shakespeare’s plays in general are also relevant to modern audiences. She said, “They offer a gateway to the past and a springboard into the future. His works are insightful, irreverent, and powerful opportunities to connect with each other.”
The Blackfriars Playhouse’s address is 10 S. Market St., Staunton. Tickets can be found on the American Shakespeare Association’s website. Prices range from $35 to $92. Shows will begin at either 2 p.m. or 7:30 p.m., and some will feature a talkback with some of the cast following the performance. The full calendar is also on the association’s website. As You Like It is appropriate for all ages, although the Blackfriars Playhouse limits guests to ages seven and up.
