The first of four performances of "As You Like It," by the Youth Repertory Theatre Company, was a wonderful romp with Shakespeare. A News Tribune "Best Bets" item of Aug. 9 neglected to mention that opportunities to see the show continue today at 2 p.m., at 7 p.m. Wednesday and a week from today at 2 p.m.
Dressing Shakespeare in modern clothing sometimes seems contrived, but these young actors made me like it. Not only that, each actor seemed to have developed an engaging character and added a zesty seasoning to the role. They're all in cahoots to tell the story. No long speech is delivered without some discrete action on stage that helps with the meaning. They understand what they are saying and pass it to the audience.
There's a delightful portrayal of friendship between two young women. You will hear and understand every word of the "Seven Ages of Man" speech. Clowns, wrestlers, shepherds, villains and even sheep are in the show. There are no bit parts here. These young actors accepted the challenge to make the play as they liked it.
I loved it. Hurray for youth!
Myrna Matheson
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Duluth
