An evil duke, a wrestling match and a girl in boy's clothing make the Brigham Young University Young Company's production of "As You Like It" fun for the entire family.
"As You Like It" runs Thursday, Sept. 18, through Saturday, Sept. 20, at 7:30 p.m. at the Nelke Theatre at the Harris Fine Arts Center. On Saturday, Sept. 20, a matinee performance will be performed at 2 p.m.
Tickets at $9 for the general public with $3 off with a BYU or student ID are available at the Fine Arts Ticket Office, (801) 378-4322 or at www.byu.edu/hfac.
The Young Company consists of faculty and students who combine their talents to bring fine art to elementary school students. Each year, the company performs a Shakespearean play as well as a contemporary piece at BYU and then tours to various elementary schools throughout Utah.
"It's really fun," says Rebecca Wallin, coordinator for the Young Company, who also plays Celia in the show. "We've cut out all the 'boring' parts. It's great for kids, but it's also fun for adults."
Wallin said the company tries to give elementary school students an opportunity to become familiar with Shakespeare's work so they won't be intimidated by it in secondary education.
"We try to do it as Shakespeare players would have—a lot of audience interaction," Wallin said.
This year, the Young Company will take their show to William Penn Elementary School and Washington Elementary in Salt Lake City as well as Pioneer Elementary in Sandy. Educators who wish to book performances for their schools may contact Rebecca Wallin at (801) 229-1073 or (801) 369-0888.
Cast members include Celeste Barrand, Rebecca Wallin, Amelia Schow, Natalie Ashton, David Hilton, Tawnie Bowers, Christopher Clark, Adam Stallard, Kemuel Swallow and Mohonri Stewart. "As You Like It" is directed by Christopher Clark, and costume design is by Susan and Amelia Schow.
Writer: Rachel Sego
