March 13-15, at 7 p.m.—WOODSTOCK—”All the World’s a Stage…,” sung by Haley Symonds, opens the musical “As You Like It” at Woodstock Union High and Middle School next weekend (March 13, 14, 15). Adapted by Shaina Taub and Laurie Woolery, this ambitious work of participatory theater features students of all ages from the Windsor Central District working in many roles: acting, singing, dancing, set design and building, performing with the band, creating props, costumes, working sound and lighting.
“As You Like It” is an immersive tale of faithful friends, feuding families, and lovers in disguise. Forced from their homes, Orlando, Duke Senior, his daughter Rosalind, and niece Celia escape to the Forest of Arden, a fantastical place of transformation, where all are welcomed and embraced. Banished into the forest, they find community and acceptance under the stars.” (description by Public Works)
Yoh Theatre’s production of “As You Like It” is led by eight Yoh masters. Seniors Haley Symonds (Jaques) and Eve Cole (Duke Senior) lead the way on stage with their powerful voices and stage presence and off-stage, leading warm-ups and holding others to high standards. Madison Niez is the stage manager, taking blocking notes, coaching actors, prompting lines, offering support and advice. Ella Ballou (Touchstone) provides lightness and fun, with her movements and expansive, soul-filling voice. Adding to the humor is Giana Fiorino (Sylvia), with her depth of character as Sylvia pines after Phoebe. Allison Bradley shows off diverse talents as she dances, wrestles, sings and manipulates puppets. Etta Warren’s voice adds to the chorus with talented harmony singing. Megan LaCroix becomes Oliver, the disgruntled older brother of Orlando.
Talent at WUHSMS is not only found in the students, but also in the older generation. Six adults will make a special appearance as boy band dancers in “Will U Be My Bride.”
The show is family-friendly, great for all ages, and runs in one act, approximately 90-100 minutes long. Tickets are available for performances on Friday, March 13 at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 14 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 15 at 3 p.m. Buy tickets online at showtix4u.com.
