Shakespeare season is upon us and striding into the ring comes Creation’s As You Like It at Wycliffe Hall – the perfect summer choice. ‘It’s not summer ’til you’ve been to a Creation show!’ Book double bill of Shakespeare’s As You Like It and kids classic Treasure Island in Oxfordshire!
The ideal offering – a romantic comedy full of classic lines, laughs, folly and mayhem takes place largely in Arden Forest where Rosalind flees with her cousin Celia (Ailsa Joy) to escape her evil uncle Duke Frederick (Creation regular Clive Duncan), disguising themselves as local foresters.
Having already met the dashing Orlando (James Bradwell) and fallen under his spell, there she finds him, and while he doesn’t recognise her, having admitted his reciprocal love for Rosalind, she offers her services as a wooing coach, as the subterfuge pans out.
Rosalind is played so joyously by Emily Woodward, who shines in this stunning performance, her evident enjoyment of the part completely infectious. The role of a lifetime!
Creation’s multi-role cast unfold the story around her with the greatest of ease amidst much revelry, singing and dancing, much of which the audience is encouraged to join in with, as we chant The Horn (“horny, horny, horny’) in this light, fun and immensely enjoyable play directed by Lucy Pitman- Wallace.
Anna Tolputt‘s comic singing and Neil Urquhart‘s hilarious guitar-playing enable the cast to switch costumes and roles effortlessly, as the wonderful range of characters parade their foibles in this leafy den.
Which is in no small measure down to the wonderful cast, and looking around the audience at the spellbound faces you can’t help but applaud Creation for their seemingly effortless way in to these often complex stories, to ensure an accessible and riveting Shakespeare experience for all.
Wycliffe Hall is new venue for the Oxford theatre company, and perfectly in tune with its in-the-round outdoor performance ethos, the marquee protecting its audience from both the sun and the rain, while the grounds offer ample picnic opportunities, or a drink at the bar.
So if you fancy an enchanting evening of riotous fun and intrigue, set in an aptly wooded arena, then you’re in the right place, because Creation has done it again by bringing you a Shakespearian summer smash.
Creation’s As You Like It runs until August 17 at Wycliffe Hall, alongside Treasure Island. BOOK HERE
