As We Liked It

One of the wonderful aspects of a blog is its ability to share the moment with followers. I have had many wonderful moments in Brooklyn and one was Friday evening when Greg and I went to BAM (the Brooklyn Academy of Music) to see As You Like It. Now I hope this link works the way I intended and takes you to the BAM site where there is a wonderful short video with highlights from the play. Sam Mendes directed a repertory group that "bridges" fine British and American actors. I find that the written word, or at least my written words, never do justice to the performances I've seen in New York. How does one describe in words the integration of scenery, lighting, music and most importantly the lyrical expression and body language that propels a well directed play into one's heart?

I could try to describe some of the moments that really moved me:

• Act One ends with a tableau of the death of the elderly Adam, who has been struggling with hunger, lack of shelter, and wandering in search of a home. When he is finally welcomed into the band of political exiles in Arden Forest his worn out body gives up while a kind stranger is feeding him. His was the face of all homeless and the table at which he sat could have been the Last Supper with the Apostles.


• Oliver, the brother with "power", has sent his younger brother Orlando and Adam into exile. Yet Oliver becomes powerless in Act 2 and has his head held under water while the usurping Duke Frederick seeks information. Waterboarding anyone?


• Rosalind/Ganymede is that wonderful type-a young woman disguised as a young boy. As Ganymede in cap and slouchy trousers she reminded me of Ellen Degeneres and I wonder if this was intentional by Mendes. As the beautiful bride Rosalind she reminded me of my favorite blonde who has had to deal with her share of confused, lovesick men but always emerges glowing and vibrant. (Those who know me will know who my blonde heroine is). She has learned through her experience that "Sweet are the uses of adversity"


• The melancholy Jaques ridiculing his fellow exiles while they sing, by adding his own stanza in a Bob Dylan style.

I could, but I won't, go on and on. But we can't wait to see the next selection by The Bridge Project: "The Tempest" in late February.