BWW Reviews: AS YOU LIKE IT at Two River Theater - A Brilliant Performance

"..... They have their exits and they have their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts." William Shakespeare

These "many parts" are a must-see at the Two River Theater production of As You Like It which is now being performed from January 25th to February 16th. Masterfully directed by Michael Sexton, the creative team brings this timeless tale to full life for metropolitan area audiences

William Shakespeare's clever play takes audiences to the Forest of Arden where cross-dressing heroines and triumphant heroes learn to embrace imagination, let go of fears and surrender to romance. The performance is just under three hours, but don't blink, you will be enthralled from start to finish.

Laced with drama, merriment and mayhem, the Two River production has a modern edge with costuming and scenic design that is captivating and not distracting. While adhering to Shakespeare's written verse, there is an occasional departure of form; just the right touch to compliment the absurdity of the plot.

Jacob Fishel as Orlando and Miriam A. Hyman as Rosalind are ideal in their leads. And, this talented troupe of accomplished thespians fills the roles in As You Like It with the ease of a much larger company. The cast assumes multiple characters seamlessly including that of Duke Frederick and Duke Senior played by Phillip Goodwin and Adam and Audrey played by Myra Lucretia Taylor. The well-known monologue, "All the world's a stage," is performed flawlessly by Geoffrey Owens as Jacques.

The original music by Ben Toth adds much to the tenor of the show. The songs are wonderfully placed and the vocals by J.D. Webster are outstanding.

Classic theater enthusiasts and those wishing to experience the best of Shakespeare will enjoy As You Like It at Two River Theater this season. The romantic comedy is a Valentine's gift for area audiences; a performance that will last with you long after you leave the theater.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director John Dias and Managing Director Michael Hurst, Two River Theater is celebrating its 20th Anniversary and continues to create American theater by developing and producing new works and world masterpieces.

Ticket prices for As You Like It range from $37 to $65, with discounts available for groups, seniors, and U.S. military personnel, their families, and veterans. A limited number of $20 tickets are available for every performance; $20 tickets may be partial view. Tickets for patrons under the age of 30 are $24 and include the best available seats at every performance. Tickets are available from tworivertheater.org or by calling 732.345.1400

Photo: Courtesy of Two River Theater

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