What do the 1970s and Shakespeare’s As You Like It have in common?

At the Globe Theatre, a lot. For the initial court scenes, we’re in the glam-rock era: the skin-tight shiny pants, the glitter, David Bowie. When the action moves to the Forest of Arden, the performers do an onstage mass costume change and suddenly everyone’s a hippie: flared corduroys, beads, bare feet. The shiny white set transforms easily into a one-tree forest, with clever lighting creating impressions of leaf-dappled sunlight.

In this astonishingly inventive production, Shakespeare’s words blend seamlessly with 20th century expressions and gestures, gender fluidity is multilayered and the 20-plus cast displays endless energy and boundless enthusiasm.

All performances are highly skilled and detailed. [More]

Copyright © in the review belongs to the reviewer

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending As You Like It at Dunedin’s Globe Theatre, which marks the long-awaited return of Shakespeare’s work to this venue after a hiatus of over four years. Directed by the talented Thomas Makinson, this community theatre production gathers a remarkable ensemble cast of over twenty gifted individuals, as well as a similarly sizeable crew, each contributing their unique talents to bring the play to life. 

Stepping into the theatre, my attention is instantly captivated by the striking set design. The stark white walls and polished flooring provide a clean and minimalist backdrop, allowing the vibrant lighting design to take centre stage. The cast and crew showcase exceptional creativity in their approach to costuming, makeup, and styling, embracing a captivating 70s and 80s glam aesthetic. This infusion of visual flair adds a touch of captivating Bowie-esq vibrancy, making each scene visually mesmerising.

A true highlight of this production is the seamless coordination and unity displayed by the ensemble cast. Each actor has their moment to shine, never overshadowing one another, but rather creating a harmonious and inclusive performance space. It is evident that the actors not only love what they do but also share a deep understanding and respect for the material. Their dedication and passion are infectious, fostering a wonderful camaraderie that resonates with the audience.

This production skilfully leans into the lewd jokes and innuendos of As You Like It, embracing the play’s playful and bawdy elements. The actors’ impeccable timing and delivery bring out the humour in each comedic moment, resulting in uproarious laughter from the audience. This delightful blend of wit and naughtiness adds an extra layer of enjoyment, emphasising Shakespeare’s timeless ability to entertain across centuries.

The gender-blind casting in As You Like It adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the characters and their interactions. The production explores the fluidity of identity, and is a wonderful example of why gender-blind casting is such a great choice, especially in scripts which are traditionally male character-heavy. This thoughtful approach further enhances the play’s themes of love, mistaken identity, and self-discovery. It is a testament to the power of inclusive casting, allowing the audience to view the story through a fresh and contemporary lens.

While the three-hour runtime might initially surprise those more accustomed to contemporary theatre, this full-length production of As You Like It brings a refreshing change. The incorporation of music and songs, curated by musical director Tobias Devereux, adds a dynamic and immersive element, enriching the experience with a melodic charm. The cast skilfully integrates the musical elements, enhancing the emotional depth and comedic moments of the play, eliciting genuine laughter as well as introspection from the audience.

As a self-confessed Shakespeare nerd, I find myself in the company of like-minded individuals who share a genuine, and affectionately dorky appreciation for the Bard’s work. The audience’s familiarity with the material fosters a palpable connection between themselves and the cast. This sense of camaraderie creates a warm and engaging atmosphere, allowing for moments of shared laughter, gasps, and applause.

For those eager to experience this captivating production, I am thrilled to inform you that it runs until the 27th of May. I wholeheartedly recommend attending As You Like It at The Globe Theatre for an enchanting evening filled with laughter, memorable performances, and thought-provoking themes. Prepare to be transported into a world where Shakespeare’s words, skilful performances, and the creative choices of the production team converge, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the enduring beauty of his work. 

Copyright © in the review belongs to the reviewer