Shakespeare’s comedy ‘As You Like It’ to be presented by the Appalachian Shakespeare Project at Concord University

ATHENS, WV (WVNS) — One of Shakespeare’s comedies will be presented during summer 2024 by the Appalachian Shakespeare Project.

‘As You Like It,’ one of Shakespeare’s romantic comedies, will be presented by the Appalachian Shakespeare Project (ASP) on July 26, 2024, and July 27, 2024 in front of the Alexander Fine Arts building at Concord University at 6:00 p.m.

This play is one of the funniest of all of Shakespeare’s comedies. It reads a little like a pastoral comedy – a play about shepherds and shepherdesses out in the fields – but then Shakespeare adds these sophisticated city characters fleeing from the court, and the comedy builds from there. I am fortunate to be working with a great new director, Karen Harvey who has performed with us for several years now. We are working with an outstanding group of actors, as well as our very talented returning costumer Chris Bone.

Dr. Gabriel Rieger | Executive Director and Concord University Professor

Shakespeare’s play ‘As You Like It’ tells a story about two young lovers who leave a corrupt court to find happiness in the Forest of Arden. Appalachian Shakespeare Project veteran actors Leanna Castro and Zachariah James will play the lead roles of Rosalind and Orlando.

I’m grateful to have this opportunity to work on such a wonderful and fun production. I’ve met so many talented and passionate people. This summer has been such an amazing experience.

Leanna Castro | Appalachian Shakespeare Project Actor

This has been my fourth year with the ASP and I wish I had joined sooner. Being a part of this team has led to develop some great friendships and taught me a whole new way of acting performance that I’ve learned to incorporate in my classes.

Zachariah James | Appalachian Shakespeare Project Actor

Karen Harvey, who joined the ASP by playing Gertrude in their 2019 production of Hamlet, returns in the summer of 2024 as not only the director, but by also playing the villainous Duchess Freida, who has took over the duchy from her sister, who is the rightful Duchess.

We’re very fortunate that Karen has joined us again this summer. Karen’s experience and craft are always an inspiration to younger cast members, and her direction this summer is really elevating our production.

Dr. Gabriel Rieger | Executive Director and Concord University Professor

The Appalachian Shakespeare Project, created in the summer of 2010, is a community theater organization that presents outdoor performances of Shakespeare’s plays. In summer 2024, ‘As You Like It’ will be performed in a few conditions similar to those in Shakespeare’s time, such as performing outdoors with natural lighting and limited scenic pieces.

Those who want to watch the play are welcome to bring blankets, camp chairs, and even to come early with picnic dinners, as the running time of the play will be approximately two and a half hours.

More information about the Appalachian Shakespeare Project can be found by contacting Dr. Gabriel Rieger, the Executive Director and Concord University Professor, by email grieger@concord.edu or by phone 304-384-5251.

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