Spring Break
Actors deliver passionate performance in 'Shakespeare's Journey'
University Theatre's latest play on Shakespeare's life runs May 8 and 9, May 14 to 16
Erin Jankoski
Issue date: 5/8/09 Section: Diversions
Although most people are familiar with William Shakespeare's work, his personal life and passage to becoming one of the greatest writers in English literature is a mystery. Last night, the University Theatre of Oregon State University presented the West Coast premiere of the play "Shakespeare's Journey," written by Leroy Clark and directed by Charlotte J. Headrick.
The story of "Shakespeare's Journey" illustrates the two clashing worlds of an inspiring poet and loving husband and father. His journey to make something of his life while maintaining his responsibilities at home combine to deliver a romantic performance. The story beings in Stratford in the late 1500s and portrays Shakespeare as a simple man with a free spirit and desire for something more.
The play examines his unstable life between London and Stratford and documents heartache, passion and triumph. The journey is about Shakespeare finding his true passion in the theater but also his journey of realizing his utter devotion for his wife Anne.
I was lucky enough to view a dress rehearsal and was pleasantly surprised. The large cast was a compelling mix of enthusiastic talent. The authentic set and colorful wardrobe created an environment for imagination. The play ran about two hours but instantly captured my attention.
The lead role of William Shakespeare is played by Bryan Bernart, and Anne Shakespeare is played by Maarika Teose. Bernart was able to get into the complex mind of Shakespeare by taking Shakespeare courses and studying Shakespeare's work.
Playing the iconic role of William Shakespeare, Bernart channeled his personal characteristics to bring a powerful act.
"I brought energy and excitement. He was young and ambitious, so I could draw from personal energy," Bernart said.
Teose was able to enhance the character of Anne Shakespeare and gave a heartfelt performance, allowing the audience to connect with the character.
"I wanted to find the human side of her. She felt loss, love and hurt, and I wanted to make her character three-dimensional," Teose said.
The overall performance was a dynamic portrayal that chronicled the possible events that Shakespeare may have experienced during his inspiring journey to bliss. I encourage others to come view this play, as it is an entertaining love story.
The play runs tonight and tomorrow, and again from May 14 to 16 at Withycombie Hall's main stage. Tickets can be purchased at the box office. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Erin Jankoski
diversions@dailybarometer.com
The story of "Shakespeare's Journey" illustrates the two clashing worlds of an inspiring poet and loving husband and father. His journey to make something of his life while maintaining his responsibilities at home combine to deliver a romantic performance. The story beings in Stratford in the late 1500s and portrays Shakespeare as a simple man with a free spirit and desire for something more.
The play examines his unstable life between London and Stratford and documents heartache, passion and triumph. The journey is about Shakespeare finding his true passion in the theater but also his journey of realizing his utter devotion for his wife Anne.
I was lucky enough to view a dress rehearsal and was pleasantly surprised. The large cast was a compelling mix of enthusiastic talent. The authentic set and colorful wardrobe created an environment for imagination. The play ran about two hours but instantly captured my attention.
The lead role of William Shakespeare is played by Bryan Bernart, and Anne Shakespeare is played by Maarika Teose. Bernart was able to get into the complex mind of Shakespeare by taking Shakespeare courses and studying Shakespeare's work.
Playing the iconic role of William Shakespeare, Bernart channeled his personal characteristics to bring a powerful act.
"I brought energy and excitement. He was young and ambitious, so I could draw from personal energy," Bernart said.
Teose was able to enhance the character of Anne Shakespeare and gave a heartfelt performance, allowing the audience to connect with the character.
"I wanted to find the human side of her. She felt loss, love and hurt, and I wanted to make her character three-dimensional," Teose said.
The overall performance was a dynamic portrayal that chronicled the possible events that Shakespeare may have experienced during his inspiring journey to bliss. I encourage others to come view this play, as it is an entertaining love story.
The play runs tonight and tomorrow, and again from May 14 to 16 at Withycombie Hall's main stage. Tickets can be purchased at the box office. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Erin Jankoski
diversions@dailybarometer.com
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