Shakespeare on Wheels presents delightful 'As You Like It'

by Winifred Walsh

Evening Sun Staff

An enthusiastic, energetic and entertaining production of William Shaakespeare's lighthearted romp through the amusing stages of courtship and love is being presented by Shakespeare On Wheels, the University of Maryland Baltimore County traveling outdoor theater group.
Directed with acumen by UMBC faculty member, Alan Kreizenbeck, "As You Like It" is mounted on the university's portable Elizabethan style stage, which features an effective pastoral set designed by Lewis Shaw. Elena Zlotescu created the eclectic but lovely array of softly colored costumes.
Songs, witty verse and sagacious commentary are comically dispensed in the Bard's satire on the artificial society of his time when court subjects fell frequently from royal favor.
Arden to escape their bad, rich relatives. Disguised as a boy, Rosalind takes it upon herself to merrily advise Orlando in the ways of romance and a mock courtship ensues.
In the forest's simple setting true happiness flourishes. Touchstone, a fool at court

Orlando and Rosalind are very much in love. They both flee (separately) into the Forest of becomes a philosopher and the melancholy Jacques dryly observes the human condition. Eventually the wicked town rascals mend their ways and all ends well with four marriages.
The UMBC cast, drawn from the university and the local theater community, is mainly competent and the actors deliver their lines with intelligence and good vocal projection.
Cheryl Hodges delights as the independent and playful Rosalind; Dianne Signiski as a charming Celia; Rachel Zirkin is a spunky Phebe; and Rod sauter impresses as Jacques.
Jason Godfrey is a admirably mean Duke Frederick, Dominic Valentine is fine as a swashbuckling and noble Orlando.
However, Sarah Cotter, as a female version of the bright, devilish and clever Touchstone, projects only a nagging, strident presence devoid of any characterization.
The company will visit 21 sites in Maryland and other states through Sept. 15. For performance locations call the UMBC Theatre box office at 455-2476.

The Evening Sun
Thursday, July 12, 1990