As You Like It

     After seeing the production of “As You Like It,” and comparing it with reading the play, it becomes more apparent that Shakespeare’s writing can often be open to interpretation.  Although there are many scenes that may be construed differently, one of the most evident is that which takes place between Orlando and Rosalind in Act 4, Scene 1. At this point, Orlando is being taught to woo Rosalind and they are now “being married” by Celia. In the production, Rosalind and Orlando share a kiss that makes it clear to Orlando that she is in fact the Rosalind that he loves and not the man that she appears to be. This scene seems to display the potential to be interpreted numerous ways. In this production, Orlando recognizes the truth immediately, while in other productions he seems to remain oblivious to the situation.

            This particular production was performed by a great cast at the Globe Theatre in London. The manner in which this play was performed seemed fairly accurate to how it would have been in Shakespeare’s time. Throughout the play, it was apparent what actor was playing which character because of the characteristics described specific to each one in the play. Although it was written with humor, the live production made the element of comedy much more obvious. Through excellent use of the stage and space, the actors were engaging and were able to make the play more enjoyable. They also included the audience by directing certain lines to specific audience members. The delivery of their lines was flawless in both clarity and expression as well. Overall, the performance proved to be totally satisfying in every way. They performed an authentic Shakespearean play while still adding their own elements of uniqueness and interpretation to it as well.

            The Orlando and Rosalind “marriage” scene stood out in the play as the most unique to their particular production. They chose to perform it in a way that was totally through their own interpretation.  By using elements such as added parts, stage movement, voice, and specific address it became clear to the audience that Orlando had, in fact, discovered the truth about Rosalind.  This is significant because in the written version of the play, Shakespeare gives no indication that the truth is ever revealed. Whether he intended it to be or not is unknown and has now become a personal choice by the actors.

            In this performance, after Orlando and Rosalind are “married” they share a kiss. It is this kiss that seems to reveal the truth to Orlando. His face clearly became one of realization and surprise, and the audience could tell that he was piecing everything together.  Without the actors’ decision to portray this realization, a different impression would have been set on the audience.  The voice, facial expressions, and the way Orlando outwardly addresses, the audience is allowed to feel more involved in the characters’ emotions. This never happens in the written version and is a perfect example of how these particular actors chose to emphasize the direction they chose to take in this scene.

            This engaging production of “As You Like It,” demonstrates the different elements certain productions can bring to Shakespeare’s written words. This particular interpretation really brought out the comedic elements and showed the different interpretations various productions and players bring to the table.