(Oh, good, the press release includes names: "Students include Patrick Foster, Edward Vandervennet, Kendra Manciel, Bria Watkins, Scott Wheeler, Sam Feichtenbiner, Kelly McNabb, Clearie McCarthy, Amelia Rogocka, Ian Henretty, Ryan Thumser, Chelsea Bonofiglio, Joseph Mull, Danielle Lynch, Elizabeth Calloway and Katie Dufort. Joining the cast for some well-played support are faculty member John Lennox, LCC Theatre alumni Tod Humphrey, Adam Pruden, Kate Bristol and Devin Faught, as well as newcomer Tomie Shauver. Original music for several songs was composed by LCC Musicianship Studios major Michael Houser.")
The good news is that despite my personal tendency to get muddled by Shakespearian language, the actors, well directed by Mary Job, each had a clear attitude and intent which brought the meaning through in spite of me. The setting is up-close-and-personal, giving the fight scenes greater impact, both literal and figurative. Noted fight choreographer John Lennox took an impressive turn on stage, and I'm surprised no bones were broken. The extra music and the fun dance number at the end (choreographer Roberta Otten) were very nice. Devin Faught has a lovely tenor voice.
The set was minimal but evocative with some lovely forest projections. The costumes were "motley" beyond just the garb of the "fool" (the animated and charming Ian Henretty in a delightful madras sport coat and shorts.) Other costumes suggested social class and were said to have a 60's look... they were a little weird but oddly appropriate. Sorry I don't have the costumer's name.)
Kelly McNabb and Amelia Rogocka played a fun pair of cousins, with Kelly pulling off one of those "dress as a boy and no one recognizes you" bits, with Amelia a charming sidekick. "Orlando" was good, too -- but I'm not sure of his real name - sorry! Joseph Mull was cynically cool as Jacques, who served as a foil for all the star-crossed lovers, and did a great job with that classic "all the world's a stage" monologue - with his cigarette, loose tie and fabulous shoes.
ONLY TWO MORE SHOWS: 8pm Saturday and 2pm Sunday the7th and 8th. $10/$5 students) LCC's Black Box is room 168 Gannon Building. It's quickest to enter from Grand Ave; the smallish door is south of the circle drive. I think there are signs leading from the parking garage; there have been for previous BB shows.)
ONE MORE SHOW: 2 pm Sunday the7th and 8th. $10/$5 students) LCC's Black Box is room 168 Gannon Building.