Provo Castle Theatre Festival "As You Like it" by Renaissance Now

Director McKay Nicol has created a sharp, witty, production of Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy, with lively contemporary music and dance.  The storyline follows a pair of lovers, facing perilous circumstances: Orlando, because of his brother Oliver,  and Rosalind. who opposed her uncle’s cruelty towards the young man. Both are also banished to the forest.  Rosalind’s cousin Celia follows and Rosalind into hiding, Rosalind dressing as a boy for their protection. Ironically, after Rosalind and Orlando meet in the forest, disguised Rosalind teaches Orlando how to win her love, as his heart pines for the beautiful girl that he does not recognize since she is dressed as a boy.  The play breaks forth with wonderful, comedic examinations of life, loyalty and love.  The supporting characters setting an ironic twist as well on relationships.  It is Shakespeare’s wonderful romp in the forest of Arden, with such endearing characters as Jaques, Touchstone, Silvius and Phebe.  Fight Direction by Kailey Azure Green and Shakespeare text coaching by Ben Henderson. As it is outdoor theatre, in a stone amphitheatre, bring pillows, blanket and chairs. Utah Humanities events include:

July 25, Thursday 7:15 pm : Dr. Kathy Curtiss: Gender and Identity, Now & Then participation event

July 26, Friday 7:15 pm:  Dr. Bruce Young: “Love, Courtship, & Conversion in Shakespeare’s Universal Themes: 1599 and Today”

July 22, Monday 7:15 pm, Ben Hopkin:  Role of Women in Shakespeare’s culture

July  19,  Friday 7:15 pm McKay Nicol (& cast): Addressing Mental Health & Depression in Shakespeare’s “As You Like it”, Then & Now

July 18: Thursday 7:15pm Bryson Smellie (& cast):  Modern Relevance of Shakespeare’s Characters