Shakespearean magic unleashed at this Kelowna winery

Step into a world of enchantment and mirth as the Shakespeare Kelowna Theatre Society presents Shakespeare's comedy, 'As You Like It,' at Spearhead Winery.

The play, originally written in 1599, follows the story of Rosalind and her cousin who escape into the forest and find Orlando, Rosalind’s love interest. But while banished by her father, she disguises herself as a man named Ganymede to test his love for her.

It explores themes of love, identity, and the contrasts between court life and life in the countryside. It incorporates elements of mistaken identity and cross-dressing, leading to comedic situations and misunderstandings.

Sarah Foss, who plays Rosalind/Ganymede told Kelowna10 the intrigue of performing Shakespeare lies within the dialogue.

“Shakespeare is poetry. It’s a chance to be able to perform something in a language that we don't get to hear every day,” she explained. “I think that it’s just absolutely beautiful. His stories are just timeless classics. So, it's exciting and challenging and a lot of fun.”

While the phrase "a Shakespeare play" might trigger some hesitancy, Foss said this is not what you may recall from your school days.

“There's music, dancing, slapstick humour. And while the language sometimes can be a little difficult to understand, it's always a good time,” she said. “We as actors really try to make sure that it is as understandable as possible so that everyone has a good time in the audience.”

Director Norene Morrow explained she chose to do this play as a chance to break away from the traditional Elizabethan era look. The actors are dressed in modern clothing, albeit with lots of cross-dressing.

“It's a lot easier if you don't do it with Elizabethan. But the show has the ability to reach an audience to make it relatable,” she explained. “The first part [of the show] we make it very cold and austere... and then the next time we come, it's the forest, and it's carefree. It’s something that everybody can relate to when we use costumes that are not from an Elizabethan era.”

The show runs from July 19th to the 29th.

Tickets can be purchased online.