Spark Theatre Company believe we should have the freedom to choose who we love and how we express it, and two of the reasons why they are putting on As You Like It – a 415 year old play at the Brunswick Arts Space as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.
Staying true to Shakespeare’s text but setting the work firmly in the here and now, the company feel this comedy, about the fools we all become in the pursuit of love, is also a timely reminder that we should strive to create a society where we can express who we are, and follow our hearts, freely and publicly – even get married.
As the characters shed the buttoned up restrictions of Melbourne winter, they reveal who they truly are as they step into the spring. So that’s why Spark have decided to launch their company with a stripped back, actor-generated, short and sharp Shakespeare.
Spark aims to produce work that resonates, starting with a great text and bringing their own experiences and truth to the play. They are all about delivering an immersive event; breaking down the barrier between the performers and audience to create a shared experience.
Directed by Perri Cummings and featuring original compositions by musical director, Kristina Benton, the cast will literally surround the audience, moving through and often talking over them.
Director: Perri Cummings Cast: Michael Wahr, Rob Gaetano, Phil Zachariah, Wendy Bos, Sarah Brett, Perri Cummings, Sam EEO, Benji Groenewegen, Ben Noble, Kristina Benton, Wayne Tunks, James Gand-Hunt, Katharine Inns, Jennifer Monk Production and Costume Designer: Jaz Tweeddale Assistant Costume Designer: Cassandra Storm Lighting Designer: Ed Chia Musical Director: Kristina Benton Voice Coach: Anna Baulk Choreographer: Kristen Adriaan Fight Choreographer: Felicity Steel
As You Like It
Brunswick Arts Space, 2a Little Breeze Street, Brunswick
Season: 25 September – 5 October 2014
Information and Bookings: www.melbournefringe.com.au
Image: courtesy of Spark Theatre Company