One of William Shakespeare’s most popular plays “As You Like It” makes a spectacular finale to Stroud’s Cotswold Players Spring season this month.
The much-loved comedy promises an evening of witty wordplay, mistaken identity, and joyous celebration all set in the magical Forest of Arden.
The story revolves around Rosalind, who – having been banished from her uncle’s court – flees her home disguised as a young man named Ganymede. There, she encounters Orlando, the man she loves, and tests his affections through playful deception while surrounded by a colourful cast of exiled nobles, shepherds, and fools.
“As You Like It” is directed by Heidi Price, whose recent productions for the Cotswold Payers include her own show “All The Worlds” which was selected by the Royal Shakespeare Company for performances at their open-air theatre at Stratford on Avon in the summer of 2024.
Pictures by Jack Boskett Media
It took its title from As You Like It’s most famous speech “all the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players” spoken by the character of Jaques.
“I wanted to honour the joy and mischief of Shakespeare’s comedy,” says Heidi, “yet allow the darker currents below to provide contrast.”
“I’ve drawn inspiration from the Pre-Raphaelites – their colour, their belief in a more natural, expressive way of living. Yet the Forest of Arden is not simply a pastoral idyll. For those who live and work there, life is harder, earthier, more real.”
“For me this is a play of contrasts: the strict court and the lush forest, the idealised and the real, the playful and the profound.”
This large-cast production stars Alice Dillon as the quick-witted Roslind and David Hill as long love-struck Orlando with other parts taken by both established and new members of the Players.
“I have been lucky enough to work with an amazing production team,” claims Heidi, “and my thanks go to Susie Salter and her team for costuming the large cast in such beautiful Pre-Raphaelite inspired, period costumes, all complemented by Judy Lovell and team with hair and make-up.”
“Also to Rod Clifford and team for our wonderful set, Mark Shotton and team for inspired lighting and not forgetting Babs Kilmister for props and Steve Goodwin and team for sound.”
“One of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies, “As You Like It” is a wonderful celebration of theatre; a play of disguise and desire, with a great range of beautifully drawn characters. We invite you to come and escape for a couple of hours with us as we journey through the forest!”
“As You Like It” can be seen at the Cotswold Playhouse on Parliament Street from Tuesday 16th to Saturday 20th June at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from www.cotswoldplayhouse.co.uk/whatson priced at £16.
