Monday, June 29, 2009

Twelfth Night - Chesapeake Shakespeare Theatre

This production, shown outdoors and set in the ruins of the Patapsco Female Institute ruins, was actually quite nice. The setting was relaxing and beautiful, and there wasn't a bad seat in the 'house' (lawn). The performance I attended was on family night, and the show had a laid back atmosphere compatible with the presence of children. Unlike some of the "family" productions that I've seen, the script wasn't altered or shortened in any way (good for the adults, not so good for the families), and unfortunately we had to leave after two hours because my son's (and my husband's) attention were wavering in a patron-disturbing way. The cast was fun, if not convincing, delivering the lines with humor and style. The acting wasn't the best I've seen (felt a bit amateurish), but it was inviting and I enjoyed myself. The novelty of the setting more than makes up for the quality of the performance, and I'll gladly go back (perhaps with different companions).