By Noel Smith
Marvelous venue (The Grove at DeLaveaga Park), good acting, interesting staging, fabulous costuming and a respect for the author’s intent are all there at Santa Cruz Shakespeare. Artistic Director Mike Ryan has done a truly professional job of bringing SCS back into serious theater for our community.
Two Gentlemen of Verona, directed by Art Manke, was well done with visually exciting costuming and creative choreography. The actors knew their parts and played them as a Shakespearian comedy should be played, convincingly comedic without going over the top. However, sometimes their delivery was too fast for me to follow.
The two friends — the Two Gentlemen from Verona Rowen Vickers as Valentine and Brian Smolin as Proteus — proved that being a friend doesn’t mean you can be trusted. The women, Grace Rao as Julia and Tristan Cunningham as Silvia, showed that their true strength comes from the ability to forge relationships. The servants Launce and Speed played by Patty Gallagher and Adam Schroeder (On roller skates!) provide a realistic counterpoint to the romantic thoughts and actions of the four lovers.
No matter the play, you can’t beat the venue at The Grove at DeLaveaga Park. Walking south from the outdoor theatre brings you to the Boyle Family Picnic Glen, featuring 16 picnic tables with wonderful sweeping views of Monterey Bay. Visit one of the food vendors in front of the theater or bring your own food and/or beverage and picnic before the show.
Some tips for this theater in the grove: 1) if it’s a play you are not familiar with – especially if it’s Shakespeare – read a synopsis so you will know what’s going on; 2) bring a first class cushion to sit on; 3) get there by 7:15; 4) take the time to know your theater companions; 5) bring some goodies to share. 6) Enjoy!
Still on stage for this season are 39 Steps, Measure for Measure, Candide and Two Gentlemen of Verona. For more information about the schedule for tickets and about becoming a sponsor visit: www.santacruzshakespeare.org