DUBOIS – The Reitz Theater in DuBois will celebrate the Birth of the Bard with their upcoming production of William Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” Sponsored by Johnson Motors, the production runs April 25-26 and May 1-3 at 7:30 p.m. and April 27 at 2 p.m.
One of Shakespeare’s greatest works, the play follows the heroine Rosalind (Lindsey Hallstrom), as she flees persecution in her uncle’s court, accompanied by her cousin Celia (Cody Buck) and Touchstone the Jester (Brian Hand), to find safety and, eventually, love, in the Forest of Arden.
The play continues to be a metaphor of love: its power, madness, danger, humor and reflection.
Director Gayle Gearhart says that as the title suggests, there’s something for every taste . . . “If you enjoy professional wrestling,” Gearhart says, “it’s there; we have a rousing wrestling bout, which comes right to the audience. If you love comedy, this play’s the thing. If you’re in for romance and you believe in love at first glance well, it’s in this show with quite the novel twist. If you enjoy music and jesters and wit and folly — and if you are ready for some drama, it’s all tied up in one play — this one IS for you.”
Gearhart’s passion for Shakespeare started in her early childhood, and encourages parents to bring their children to the production. “. . . Or better yet, children, bring your parents to see the play, she adds, “You might not understand every word, but you will understand their meanings and the characters.”
This production will also offer a style similar to London’s Globe Theater, by offering special student pricing of $4 for children to serve as a groundling in front of, or even on stage. The characters will also be in and with the audience, so literally, as the character Jacques (Ben Fye) says, “All the World’s a Stage.”
The Reitz will also join a worldwide celebration on Shakespeare’s actual birthday, with a special birthday party and open house planned April 23 at 6:30 p.m. This free event will feature entertainment, snacks, cake and drinks, plus a chance to meet and greet with the actors and director.
Tickets for the production of “As You Like It” are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students and $5 for kids. A special $4 ticket is available first-come, first-serve for children on or surrounding the stage.
Purchase tickets at the Reitz Theater Box Office, Kohlhepps True Value, S&T Bank (on the Boulevard), Rosie’s Book Shoppe and Ms. Cat’s Cache (formerly Catherine’s Cache). Tickets may also be reserved by calling 814-375-4274 or going online to www.reitztheater.com.