As You Like It

RSC @ The Holloway Garden Theatre until 1st September

***** “Just how you like it.”

You can feel the wind and a touch of rain as well. The Holloway Garden Theatre Stratford just at the side of the elegant Swan Theatre is the perfect setting for this edited version of As You Like It and easily transports us to the Forest of Arden. A timeless classic in the most beautiful surroundings. Following a rather unexpected and novel wrestling bout love is seen to blossom between Rosalind and Orlando. Nothing of course runs smoothly, and the forest is the backdrop for disguises, poetry, and a gaggle of amusing visiting characters. An edited dash takes about an hour and twenty minutes brilliantly carved by director Brendon O’Hea, full of frivolity and superb engagement with the assembled crowd. Catherine Jayes musically directs the multi-talented ensemble, grabbing with ease everything from a double bass to a handily placed trombone. The movement moments choregraphed by Sian Williams are also flavoured with humour and catchy sway.

The reason for the rather novel wrestling session is the indisposition of Luke Brady as Orlando he had sustained a nasty foot injury but gallantly went on and performed from a chair throughout down stage left. Nevertheless, he grabbed our attention from the seated position and proved an engaging and endearing suitor to Rosalind. Letty Thomas was a revelation as Rosalind, full of energy and wit and a stylish delivery.

Peter Dukes and Susannah Van Den Berg tickled out the fun as the wrestler and Audrey respectively.

In truth it was a splendid company effort packed with the vim and vigour needed to keep us alert and entertained.

Grab a seat and hopefully a wee bit of sunshine to go with it.

David Robinson