Lanes Coven Theater Company Immerses Audiences with "As You Like It"

All the world’s a stage.

Lanes Coven Theater Company presents William Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” The story follows Rosalind, a woman who flees her home and disguises herself as a young man. She escapes to the Forest of Arden, where romance and mistaken identities stir. 

I always enjoy new theater experiences, and my latest adventures took me to the Windhover Performing Arts Center to see Lanes Coven’s production of “As You Like It.” Staged beneath a tent and surrounded by nature, the show embraces Shakespeare’s humor and the moral to create your own path. 

Ten actors create a lively Shakespearean world. Each actor is sharp in their performance and has a commanding stage presence. All their interaction felt natural. Most importantly, through comedy and reflective monologues, they helped audiences feel part of this world. 

Eryn O’Sullivan delivers a captivating performance as Rosalind, one of Shakespeare’s most intelligent and resourceful heroines. O’Sullivan commands the stage with charisma and confidence. She brings warmth to Rosalind’s journey of love and self-discovery.

Rosalind, Celia (Naomi McLeod), and Touchstone (Breezy Leigh) were among my favorite characters. The actors were having fun in their interactions. O’Sullivan and McLeod’s chemistry was palpable. The cousins' relationship is an important part of the show. 

David Keohane plays Orlando, a noble and sincere young man who falls in love with Rosalind. He also embarks on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of love.  

There’s not just one story happening in “As You Like It.” Shakespeare always liked to surprise his audiences. In Rosalind’s travels, she meets several other characters who have been banished or help her. 

One character she meets is Jaques (Michael Lopez Saenz). Saenz’s delivery of Shakespeare’s reflective speeches, particularly the famous “All the world’s a stage” monologue, is engaging. 

Most actors have two roles, quickly switching just seconds after their last scene. Debra Wise started as Duke Frederick, a very strict ruler, to the generous Duke Senior amid an onstage scene transition. Wise transitioned so smoothly. You’d really think it was a new actor. 

Another example is Alex Strzemilowski, who was Adam, an elderly man, until switching to Silvius, a lovestruck shepherd. Thomas Vice had an assortment of roles, playing a professional wrestler, Amiens, and even a sheep who roamed onstage. The fight scene was very well-choreographed by Angie Jepson.  

Lily Narbonne showcases impressive versatility in her dual roles as Phoebe and Le Beau. She brings spirited humor to the goofy Phoebe, the lovestruck shepherdess, and a poised portrayal of Le Beau. 

As for Eliza Fichter, she demonstrates impressive range by portraying both Oliver and Corin. First, Fichter plays Orland’s bitter and resentful brother, Oliver, until becoming a humble and kindhearted shepherd. Theater is one of the greatest tests of versatility.  

Windhover Performing Arts Center in Rockport is a picturesque area for live theater. It’s a lovely spot to walk through and learn about the history. Love notes are set up throughout the grounds. The venue served the setting well, immersing audiences in the Forest of Arden. The stage was vibrant, including colorful curtains that transitioned between scenes. 

Lanes Coven’s production also marked another first for me. I had never seen Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” At its core, “As You Like It” is a story about identity, forgiveness, and the freedom to become one's truest self.

Like Shakespeare, Lanes Coven adds several surprises to the show, like technical elements and music. Stay for the dance party at the end. If you have not seen a Lanes Coven show, get your tickets to see “As You Like It,” performing at Windhover until Aug. 2. Tickets are available online.