As You Like It

"All the worlds a stage, and all the men and women merely players."
-William Shakespeare

Tonight I found myself back at the Globe for a performance of Shakespeare’s comedy “As You Like It.” While I didn’t particularly like it, it was a good experience nonetheless. Perhaps if I had been more familiar with the text I would’ve enjoyed it more, but mostly I just found the whole performance rather confusing. Something about a boy dressing up as a girl and convincing the man she is in love with to woo her boyish alter ego? Okay Shakespeare…whatever fits your fancy. Aside from the convoluted plotline, I was rather confused by the Victorian style costuming and the use of an old fashioned camera in many of the scenes. While I agree that Shakespeare’s work has a certain timelessness, I don’t understand why a play performed in an Elizabethan style theater would not be designed in a coordinating style. But again, whatever fits your fancy. Most notable moments include the rain through the open roof of the theater and the official mutiny of my feet after standing for three and a half hours. I’ll probably reflect on this experience with more kindness when the hypothermia wears off and I can walk again…

St. Paul's at night from across the river.

cheers,
kate.