Colonial Chorus Players 'As She Likes It' is a Theatrical Celebration of Women

Thou has to fight to be recognized.

Colonial Chorus Players presents As She Likes It, a play consisting of six vignettes featuring various women characters from Shakespeare’s works. These six different stories explore the complex themes of women’s roles as the women realize their worth and fight to comprehend their situations.

As She Likes It is a unique theater experience. I was fascinated that it centered around the notable female characters in William Shakespeare’s works. Colonial Chorus Players' artful rendition takes audiences on a thought-provoking journey through six distinct tales where choices and decisions define women’s lives in a bygone era.

Each actor involved in As She Likes It instituted a mesmerizing performance. The cast’s remarkable dedication is a highlight. I was in awe at how serious the performances were, fully engaged in their scenes. They found subtle nuances and raw emotion in what these Shakespearean women fought for.

Each vignette in As She Likes It has a diverse tone. These narratives are quite deep. ‘A Woman’s Battle’ and ‘Haircuts’ delve into more serious aspects of women’s struggles. Others like, ‘The Shrew Must Go On’ and ‘The Lear Sisters’ infused humor, making the audience laugh.

My favorite segment of the evening is ‘The Nurse’s Rebellion.’ In this story, Shakespeare has a word with one of his female characters about her opinions on the depiction of events. As a writer myself, this is relatable. How do your characters feel about the situation?

Krisha Hoyt-Mackler had a keen understanding of the Shakespearean language. Her exceptional direction merits praise for her ability to extract deeper definitions from Shakespeare’s works. It’s evident that Hoyt-Mackler sat with the cast to analyze the meanings behind each vignette.

The theater holds a succession of stories. Each piece transitioned smoothly into the next. First, we’re in a dressing room until we’re sitting in a room in the castle and then characters are having a conversation in a barber shop. Every scene is different.

Barbara Malek and Leslie Hackney acquired a gorgeous wardrobe for the cast. I loved all the dresses! Makeup, hair, and jewelry are a standout too. The studious research that everyone did to convey Shakespeare’s time in As She Likes It is remarkable.

As She Likes It challenges audiences with its themes. Throughout the production, the themes of choices and decisions have audiences contemplate the constraints put on women during Shakespeare’s era.

Women characters in Shakespeare have undergone much speculation over decades. Women's roles have changed significantly. These women showcase the complexity of the female experience. The show is a powerful reminder that women, then and now, have always found ways to shape their destinies, regardless of any constraints put on them.

Shakespeare’s works have varied among audiences. Over time, I have become more intrigued by his works further examining his language. For anyone who is not aware of Shakespeare, this show is an excellent starting point. Shakespeare’s language is a daunting endeavor that deserves time to study every word and motivation of the characters. It’s worth it.

Colonial Chorus Players As She Likes It offers a fresh perspective on the women of Shakespeare’s world. This production is a testament to the dedication to keeping Shakespeare’s works relevant. I was so engrossed in this show that I felt like I was actually watching Shakespeare's characters fight to see the true picture.

As She Likes It plays at Colonial Chorus Players until October 15. This is a deep and reflective dramatization that resonates with audiences. Buy your tickets and go watch this stellar cast welcome you to the world of Shakespeare.