As You Like It | Libra Theatre Cafe

As You Like It remains one of William Shakespeare's most beloved plays, with frequent revival and adaptations that explore the love, comedy and drama that drives the plot. The Whole Pack Theatre Company, an all-female company, presents Shakespeare with a new infusion of something dazzling and daring whilst ensuring more opportunities for diversity in the bard's plays. As You Like It marks the company's fourth play (soon to be toured as part of a double bill with Macbeth).

The play primarily follows the love story between Rosalind and Orlando as they are both separately banished to the forest of Arden; Rosalind for breaking the Kingdom's strict rules forbidding music and dance, and Orlando to escape a potential scheme for his demise. Rosalind, in disguise as a man for safety, is joined by her loyal cousin Celia and the court fool. Orlando and Rosalind meet a variety of other characters in the forest, and through a series of miscommunication, are all thoroughly entangled in a hilarious Web.

As You Like It features many characters, which makes this production with its six cast members all the more exciting. The cast do an impressive job, making each of the roles clear, even when they sometimes switch mid-scene; through the help of their performance and quick changes and accessories.

Directed by Jessamy James, the production soon has the audience invested in the characters, with cheers, gasps and laughter heard throughout. Considering the production was presented in a small basement with seats crammed together during the melting heatwave, with only a portable air-con tucked in the corner, the mere fact that the entire audience were whisked away to the forests of Arden is mighty feat. James' direction allows the cast to lean into the more fun elements of the show, with added gags, particularly the trumpet with a very peculiar noise, not to take the show too seriously. Whilst the play uses the original text entirely, there are a few moments, to the audience's immense delight, where background characters quietly react with modern language and slang that really aids the production to feel more refreshing. The show has a runtime of two hours, including an interval and yet it feels much shorter and snappier and that's a credit to James. 

As You Like It, perhaps Shakespeare's play most well known for its musical quality, is given a gorgeous upgrade in this production by musical direction (who also doubles as the show's ASM) from Megan Louise Taylor. The show includes several songs that weave in so well with the play, that it was only after checking the programme that one would realise they were all original. Whilst a couple of the songs have lyrics penned by Shakespeare, the music and other lyrics are all original for this production. This element of the production works extremely well, that it seems almost a shame that Shakespeare himself hadn't written the play to include more songs. The cast come together to not only sing, but also lend their talent as actor-musicians with the use of a smaller portable harp and guitar. Megan Carter's choreography recognises the intimate space, but still allows for a merriment of movement, particularly for the marriage montage.

The small stage features a clothing line with covered poles, which later transform into trees, adorned with the many hats, scarves, and clothes that the vast quickly change into. The props are minimal, often used for comedic purposes. As there is no backstage, cast members often hide behind this clothes line, making miniscule movements to change into their next scene. Mary Anne Coleman, who serves as both Stage Manager and Lightning Designer, manages to split the stage, allowing for the audience to see both Orlando and Rosalind's prepectives in the forest. 

Each performer does an incredible job in providing an enjoyable and highly watchable performance, with a clear fluency with the Shakespearean script. However, perhaps ironically, with a little too much liberty, the performances vary from heartfelt to exaggerated. Whilst individually these work very well, especially within the world of the play, it felt a little odd in scenes with multiple people. It could at times feel almost confusing to see a performer deliver a heartfelt performance, and another ramp up the theatricality of the language. This thankfully only occurred in a minimal number of scenes, especially in the first act. As previously mentioned the performances themselves, individually, were a tremendous homage to the play as the cast really allowed thr script and their characters to guide them. 

Kira Morsley brings a infectious energy to her many roles, making each character as vibrant and memorable, and proving herself an excellent Shakespearean actor, ensuring that every moment of wit was well received. Catriona Trainer is a stand out with her role as Rosalind's cousin Celia. Trainer ensures that Celia is never sidelined and provides much more emotional depth to the role, allowing audiences to really root for her. Her ability to have the audience laughing one moment and jn rapt attention thr next is particularly impressive. 

James is an absolute hoot on stage with a swagger that is rougishly charming. James not only unpacks every element of comedy and drama from the script, but truly embodies the dramatic flair that makes the play so beloved. Caroline Cromwell is another stand out performer, with an assured performance that promises audiences that they are in good hands. Cromwell not only makes the script feel as though it were her native tongue, but understands the character intentions well; providing audiences with some really excellent acting choices. Cromwell commands not only the small stage when stood upon it, but the entire room. 

Jasmine McHayle takes a more earnest approach with Orlando, leaning more into his gentle and romantic side with a sweeter performance; really giving audiences the chance to visit a new interpretation of the show. Megan Carter simply steals the show. Carter makes Rosalind such an endearing character that is full of life. Carter is flawless with the script, making it feel even more natural, especially with genuine reactions that has the audience in stitches as she hides from her love. Carter's performance elevates the show, as she demonstrates her quadruple threat on stage.

As You Like It remains as ever, a tricky play that often presents its own challenges with the many overlapping plot lines, and many many characters; and yet the Whole Pack Theatre Company prove that it is not only possible to do with a smaller theatre company, but to do it well.

As You Like It embarks on a summer tour this year, as a double bill with Macbeth. Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare or of theatre, this show is a dream for the middle of the summer.

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review