Shared Experience returns to Richmond for the first time since Polly Teale’s final production of Mermaid in 2015. A major new production of As You Like It, directed by Kate Saxon, launches its national tour fromTuesday 7th – Saturday 11th November, following a successful run in Theatre by the Lake in Keswick in the spring.
One of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies with the most witty and wise-cracking heroine of them all, this enduringly popular play was the very first to be performed on the Richmond Theatre stage in 1899, when it was preceded with an original prologue written specifically for the occasion! Now it returns in a bold and dynamic new production by Kate Saxon.
Set in the modern world of alternative facts and fiercely jealous leaders, the young Rosalind and her friend Celia find themselves pawns in a power struggle. Together they decide to flee the city and its politics for the forest where they discover a countryside wonderland of peace and harmony. Disguised as a boy, Rosalind meets Orlando and, amidst the intoxicating atmosphere of the forest, counsels him in the art of love.
As You Like It, a co-production with Theatre by the Lake, will be the first in a series of mid-scale UK tours produced by Shared Experience over the next three years. Shared Experience have pioneered a thrillingly distinctive performance style that celebrates the union of physical and text-based theatre, and this show promises to be a bright and accessible production of this timeless play.
Theatre by the Lake, hailed by The Independent as “the most beautifully located and friendly theatre in Britain”, opened in 1999. It is a short stroll from Derwentwater on the edge of Keswick, amid the magnificent western fells of the Lake District.
National press night will be held at Richmond Theatre on Wednesday 8th November, 7.30pm.
As You Like It – Tue 7 – Sat 11 Nov at Richmond Theatre
Tickets: from £16.90* (includes booking fee)
Tickets: from £16.90* (includes booking fee)
Richmond Box Office: 0844 871 7651* Website: atgtickets.com/Richmond*
*Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.
*Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.