Rather than being set in the literal shadow of the Capitol, it’s set in a young, vibrant part of Folger. as much as you like We deliver Shakespeare’s romantic comedy among the people of Washington DC, not the politicians. This is a sharp nod to the fact that Washington may be the nation’s capital, but it’s also a vibrant city with its own microcosm of love, life, and family hierarchy.
Artistic Director Karen Ann Daniels’ vision, directed by Timothy Douglas, fits well with Folger’s space, providing an intimate, gentle, interactive theater that says, “Come on, this is for you.”
What’s even better is the team’s decision to go in a full-fledged classic direction and keep the adaptation cute but thoughtful. There’s no doubt that set designer Gisela Estrada’s city murals and Celeste Jennings’ costumes are set in the modern world, but this is Shakespeare without compromise, deeply respectful of his audience.
Everyone said happily, as much as you like It’s not the easiest play, with multiple characters, a romance that comes along at the speed of Instant Pot noodles, and a major love match rattled by a decidedly bizarre deception in disguise. Honestly, on what planet is the young hero Orlando so instantly attracted to Ganymede, a young man who is actually Rosalind in disguise and Orlando’s “I would die for you” lover?
Of course, when viewed in historical context, we may never know what attracted the Bard (and perhaps his audience) to this impossible folly, but it was doubly so, whatever it was. In Shakespeare’s time, Rosalind would have been played by a man who would have disguised himself as a man – resulting in another man falling in love with someone everyone in the audience already knew was a man. This is definitely a book for academics.
In any case, this suspended disbelief is brilliantly lifted by Manu Kumasi as Orlando and Tsirara Bullock as Rosalind. Kumasi brings an undeniable ferocity to his young man, but also a brand of anxiety that is quite appealing. His suggestion that a tightly wound rocket of love and passion suddenly find its target feels endearingly genuine. Kumasi’s language skills are also good, though he can sometimes be louder than necessary, but that’s a matter of experience, not talent.
Like Rosalind, Bullock is a complete original, often a thousand miles removed from any incarnation of such originality. In fact, she’s a fully dimensional woman who can step right off stage and into your life, exuding a “let’s see if he’s serious” kind of sincerity that goes a long way toward explaining the intricate ploy she pulls on Orlando. In addition to this individuality, her Shakespeare flows with exceptional naturalism and perfect emphasis.
Another standout is the memorable Nikkole Salter as the charismatic Jack, bringing just the right humorous intensity and physical comedy. Her language flows like silk. Like Colin and Phoebe, Raven Lorraine thrives on the Shakespearean stage, commanding her space with the warmth and confidence of a born storyteller.
Anchoring the production in the roles of warring patriarchs Duke Sr. and Duke Frederick, Jefferson A. Russell brings gravitas and plays with gusto. Another key player is Ahmad Kamal as Touchstone, the court fool who joins Rosalind’s Ganymede and her best friend Celia (played with sweet enthusiasm by Sabrina Lynn Sawyer) in the Forest of Arden. Kamal is clearly very used to physical comedy and captivating audiences, and what wit can’t quite overcome, he definitely achieves with pure expression. joy of living.
While these are some of the many highlights, it’s also true that there’s a certain unevenness to the production, with some moments feeling less successful than others. At least part of that is the challenge of a long, complex play, but perhaps it’s also the price of bringing forward young talent who need the work to gain experience. Still, often the stars align (unlike all lovers); as much as you like It feels like a deeply knit troupe breathing life into an entertaining and well-told story.
As you like it (★★★★☆) runs through April 12 at the Folger Shakespeare Theater, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. Tickets range from $20 to $109. visit folger.edu.
Source: Metro Weekly – www.metroweekly.com
