As You Like It Review: Versailles Costumes Enhance Arden Comedy

Shakespeare's Globe production of "As You Like It" in London employs elaborate Versailles-era costumes and wigs to set the initial tone of Duke Frederick's court, drawing parallels to French period comedies and Molière. This directorial choice precedes the characters' entry into the Forest of Arden, where their attire shifts to plainer, more earthy disguises. The contrast in costuming between the opulent court and the pastoral setting of Arden serves to underscore the play's central themes of disguise, identity, and the pursuit of happiness. The production, directed by [Director's Name - if available in source, otherwise omit], features a lively and deftly designed staging that enhances the comedic elements of the pastoral play. The initial scenes, set in a court that evokes Louis XVI's Versailles, are characterized by flamboyant gestures, suggesting a constant state of performance and disguise even within the courtly environment. This theatrical approach allows for a fresh interpretation of the Bard's work, blending the familiar Shakespearean narrative with a distinct French period sensibility. As the characters transition to the Forest of Arden, their costumes become simpler and more natural, reflecting a move towards a more authentic self or a different form of disguise suited to the natural world. This visual transition amplifies the play's exploration of gender and identity as characters adopt new personas. The review highlights how these sartorial choices contribute to the comedic impact and thematic depth of the production, making the familiar plot of banished courtiers seeking solace and love in the countryside resonate with a renewed sense of theatricality. The staging aims to bring out the liberating aspects of disguise within Arden's bucolic setting, prompting audiences to consider the layers of identity presented throughout the play. The production's success lies in its ability to integrate these visual elements seamlessly with the text, creating a cohesive and engaging theatrical experience that offers a unique perspective on Shakespeare's "As You Like It." The review praises the overall design and execution, noting how the costumes and setting work in concert to illuminate the play's enduring comedic power and its complex examination of human nature and societal roles. The shift from the artificiality of the court to the perceived naturalness of the forest is visually emphasized, providing a strong foundation for the unfolding romantic and comedic entanglements. This interpretation suggests that the characters' courtly lives are themselves a form of constant disguise, a notion powerfully conveyed through the initial lavish costuming. The production's innovative approach to costume design is central to its critical reception, offering a compelling visual narrative that complements the play's dialogue and action. The review implies that this specific staging of "As You Like It" at Shakespeare's Globe offers a distinct and memorable viewing experience, particularly for those familiar with Shakespeare's pastoral comedies.