Cardinal Players put own spin on Shakespeare's 'As You Like It'

The Medical Lake High School Cardinal Players finished their two-day run of their adaption of William Shakespeare’s “As You Like It,” Nov. 7-8.

Published in Shakespeare’s “First Folio” in 1623, “As You Like It” focuses on Rosalind, whose uncle Duke Frederick usurped her father, Duke Senior of his power and land. Rosalind falls in love with Orlando, who reciprocates her feelings yet leaves the court when he discovers a plot against his life. Frederick banishes Rosalind, who is joined by her cousin Celia and the court jester Touchstone. Rosalind disguises herself as a man named Ganymede while Celia takes on the alias of a commoner named Aliena. While in disguise, Rosalind encounters Orlando, who professes his love for the woman he left behind. Before Rosalind can reveal her identity to Orlando, a shepherdess named Phoebe falls in love with her — or rather falls in love with Ganymede.

The audience in attendance enjoyed the comedy bits throughout the production.

Alexa Ray, who portrayed Rosalind, was performing a lead role for the first time.

“It was intimidating but it was fun at the same time,” Ray said.

Ray said it was great to see the work of her and her castmates “come to life” on opening night.

In addition to the main characters, the audience enjoyed the supporting characters, particularly the antics of Touchstone, played by Jonah Holloway.

Some students played dual roles. Sofia Novochekhova played roles of Phoebe and Orlando’s servant Adamila — originally named Adam but changed during production. Although Novochekhova’s dress ripped, she continued as if nothing happened.

“For playing two roles you have to prepare yourself,” Novochekhova said. “The adrenaline rush is what’s most interesting. It’s the best thing. After every scene you get more confident.”

Another element that audiences enjoyed was the cast addressing them during scenes.

Debbi Snortland, one of the audience members, enjoyed the cast’s interacting with the audience.

Besides changing a couple of characters, there were some other modern touches added to the play. The first 45 seconds of Pink’s “Rockstar” plays during the wrestling match between Orlando and Charles in the first scene. James Brown’s “I Feel Good” plays when Rosalind encounters Orlando for the first time.

Janine Warrington, a Medical Lake alum who directed the play, said those were added by the cast. Warrington said she was happy with how the cast performed after weeks of rehearsing.

“To finally see them get into their characters, I could not be more proud,” Warrington said.

Al Stover can be reached at [email protected].